Saving Dollars for a Snowy Day

By Elaine Macdonald

The reserve fund to handle a major snowfall is sitting at $1.1 million, but , according to the Mayor, it should be  at least three times that amount.  "I would feel comfortable if the reserve was $3 million " says Mayor Colin Kinsley.  

CIty Manager George Paul reminds us the City spent more than four million one year when  Prince George had to dig out from an unusually  snowy winter, so  in his estimation, $3 million may not be  enough.

The debate was sparked during  discussions on the snow removal budet which included an 800 thousand dollar contribution to the snow reserve.  That reserve hasn't been touched for two years and at least one Councilor suggested instead of shovelling another $800 thousand into that account, the money might be put to better use elsewhere.

 There are some other  major items coming up for Council's consideration including  additional  officers and staff for the Police, a request which will add $220,000 to the budget this year,  and double that amount in 2007.

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