City Budget Nears Approval

The city wants to cap future budget increases for police, fire and transit services to one per cent in 2011 and 2012. That word from acting City manager Pat Woods who will be presenting a balanced budget for Common Council's approval next week. It's expected to contain a stable tax rate of $1.79 but Woods is warning Councillors they have to do something about the financially beleaguered city pension plan this year. Deputy Mayor Stephen Chase is concerned about rising water rates and wants to see major construction projects limited to water.