Spending cuts sidelined in budget debate

A city councillor in Thunder Bay wants to know why the economic development corporation has so much money in the bank — and yet still wants more.

Rebecca Johnson’s query was part of an ongoing debate over the city’s budget at a meeting Wednesday night.

"You've got $380,000 in project funding — why aren't you spending that? That's my question," Johnson said.

"You've got $460,000 in your operations. And you want an additional … $800,000? Help me with that."

The group said it holds onto money in case it gets requests from new businesses looking to set up in the city, or for special projects. The corporation also said it plans to hire a new staff member, as well as a new CEO.

'Really necessary?'

Johnson went on to ask about making cuts to capital funding for daycare and the fire department. She asked the fire department if they could split the cost of new equipment with other communities.

"Is there some way that we can … save some dollars in the fire department," she said. "Do you have to have every single thing that you request here? Is it really, really necessary? How can we cut back on this?"

Some of the fire department’s requests included the purchase of a new set of the Jaws of Life, an aerial ladder truck that hasn’t been replaced since 1986, and a new pumper truck.

Johnson’s request received the cold shoulder, as did a request from Coun. Joe Virdiramo, who wanted to freeze rates for swimming lessons and community programs.

"A few minutes ago we were talking about [the economic development corporation] with the hundreds of thousands of dollars and the millions in reserve and whatnot," he said.

"And, here, we're quibbling about $14,600, which isn't going to be taken away from community and recreational services."

Virdiramo's proposal to open pools earlier in the season was also sidelined.

No changes were made to the proposed budget and council is expected to continue its debate next week.