The recommendations from the finance committee call for some tough measures for the municipality this year.
On Monday, a series of five recommendations came before municipal council.
These include a one per cent tax increase, a hiring freeze and a recommendation not to fill the vacant administrator’s position this year.
While such measures can minimize tax increases and keep staffing levels low, we wonder whether they are practical measures.
A one per cent tax increase brings in just $60,000 a year. When a budget is measured in the millions of dollars and when inflation takes its toll, a $60,000 increase seems meagre.
The two recommendations on hiring also have some disturbing implications.
At present, municipal treasurer Ken Ostraat is filling in as acting administrator, since that position is now vacant. The treasurer’s role is a big responsibility, as is the administrator’s role. Having one person in both roles for a short period of time is possible, but one person doing two heavy jobs for a year will take a toll.
The hiring freeze recommendation could also have some far-reaching implications.
The committee suggested any new position or rehiring for an existing position be approved by council. While it makes sense to consider new positions at the council level, existing positions should be filled when they become open. Otherwise, the work load is added to those who are left.
A recent examination into municipal operations showed Summerland is not overstaffed and in some areas staffing could be increased.
Summerland already runs a tight ship.
The finance committee has made recommendations which need to be considered, but in the end, they may prove too stringent for the municipality.