Sights set on computer funding

Town administration has been able to squeeze $300,000 out of its operating costs for a new computer system at the Civic Centre.
But during the committee of the whole meeting Monday, councillors decided to delay the expenditure because of the potential impact of Bill 140, which is expected to be introduced at Queen’s Park later this year.
The bill, if retroactive to Jan. 1 2001, would force the town to re-arrange its tax levy, leaving no increase on industrial, commercial, or multi-residential properties.
The town then would have to either put all tax increases onto residential properties or reduce the levy increase.
The new computer system–which would feature more up-to-date software and hardware–was first requested by town treasurer Diane Pearson earlier this month.
Council had suggested the funding for the expense be found within the town’s existing budget.
“I think what we asked them to do is to go back and see if they can find the money but a few things have come up in regards to Bill 140,” noted Coun. Deane Cunningham.
“Right now, our budget is an open book of sorts,” he said. “It’s prudent that all capital expenditures be put on hold until we can determine that financially we’re okay.”
Council will meet Friday to discuss how much it will cost if Bill 140 is passed in order to set that amount aside.
“What we need to discuss is the impact of that legislation,” said CAO Bill Naturkach. “If the legislation goes through, we need to realize the consequences.”
According to Naturkach, current Fort Frances tax ratios released by NDP leader and local MPP Howard Hampton were not accurate, adding the new numbers will be presented to council Friday.
“By Friday we’ll have the amount estimated,” he said.
Pearson was commended by council for finding the funds for the computer system within the budget, as well as for putting together the town’s five-year capital forecast–a list of projects in order of priority which Fort Frances would like to accomplish over five years.
“It puts all our projects in a cue. It’s an excellent management financial tool,” said Naturkach.
Also Monday night, council passed a bylaw approving an agreement with the Rainy River Future Development Corp. for the delivery of economic development services.
Both the committee of the whole and regular council meetings passed quickly, with a brief agenda and the mayor and two councillors absent.