Photo by B. Shakyaver
In South Huron Council’s meeting on Monday, December 18, councilors engaged in a discussion with Jim Craigmile, a representative from the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA).
Craigmile highlighted the significant budget increase, exceeding 20%, attributing it to changes in the Conservation Act.
He said that the largest implications to the budget were the necessity of adding several staff to see to administrative tasks that were introduced through changes to the act.
Councilor Marissa Vaughan cited her experience sitting with the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority, where some municipalities opted out of their contributions, citing a perceived lack of value.
Councilor Ted Oke expressed that the increases had struck a nerve in South Huron, where very little of the UTRCA’s work affected the community.
Craigmile extended an invitation for Council to share their thoughts on the budget increase by the end of January, providing an opportunity for South Huron to influence decisions at the board level in time for upcoming discussions.
Written by: B. Shakyaver
