Mark Bentz News Today

A discussion regarding the possibility of designated encampments took up much of the time during an at-large ward meeting held at city hall on Monday.

Council agreed to a pay increase of 1.05 per cent, which is relatively small compared to 2023's increase of 2.9 per cent.

Staff now have until March 31, 2025 to report back to council on a potential sale of Hillcourt Estates.

The tax levy on the more than $537-million budget dropped to 5.47 per cent after growth and 5.91 per cent before growth.

The veteran councillor wouldn't mind seeing more at-large members and a reduced number of individuals elected to office.

The municipal tax levy is at 5.48 per cent after growth (5.93 before growth) with ratification set for February 12.

The 2024 budget for Thunder Bay was approved in principle by city council Wednesday, with just one final vote needed to make it official

The extra $250,000 will cover an increase in purchased services within the force.

Council voted in favour of three curbside leaf and yard waste pick up days during the year. They also approved an increase to the recreation trails budget by $85,500.

City staff put forward a recommendation to increase the tax-supported operating budget by $250,000 for expenditures, which would result in an increase to the municipal tax levy of 0.11 per cent.