Chatham-Kent Fire Department. (Photo by Jaryn Vecchio)
Chatham

Tax cut could require closures of CK fire stations & libraries

Several rural fire stations and libraries would need to close across Chatham-Kent if a proposed tax cut is approved.

That's according to a report made by the Municipality of Chatham-Kent's administration in response to a motion from Councillor Ryan Doyle to look into the possibility of cutting spending in seven departments by 7.5 per cent.

The affected departments include the CAO's office, corporate services, development services, finance, fire and emergency services, health and human services, and infrastructure and engineering services.

To get to the 7.5 per cent cut in fire and emergency services spending, the department would need to shutdown five fire stations in North Kent, East Kent, South Kent, and West Kent. CK's administration said home and business insurance rates would likely increase due to longer fire response times.

When it comes to the CAO's office, which oversees community culture and connections, libraries in Highgate, Merlin, Bothwell, Wheatley, and Thamesville would need to close. CK's administration explained this would result in less community engagement, fewer programs, outreach and partnerships, home service, reader’s advisory, computer and tech help, and more.

Other cuts mentioned in the report include the Ridge House Museum, Milner Heritage House, grants for museums, insurance coverage for the municipality, and funding for child care operators.

Doyle previously told CK News Today his motion only aims to bring back suggestions. He said he brought it forward due to a potential tax increase of 6.9 per cent in 2025.

Meanwhile, CK's administration noted CK's tax rate is currently the lowest among all Ontario municipalities with over 100,000 people. With the increase, they believe they'll continue to be lower than the provincial average.

The administration also explained any of these cuts would be in addition to the roughly $36 million in reductions that have already been approved in CK's 2024-2027 budgets. An additional $5.5 million has also been identified, which would bring the total to over $41 million.

Doyle's motion will be discussed during CK's budget meeting on Wednesday, November 13, 2024.

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