Okotoks residents have the next four weeks to have their say in next year’s municipal budget.
The Town released an online tool, Citizen Budget, which will allow residents to have their say in budget discussions until July 9.
“The online tool provides residents with the opportunity to share their priorities and preferences for service levels,” said Okotoks financial services manager Allan Felker. “It allows you to see the impact that changes in allocation of tax dollars can have on the municipality’s service.”
Application users can select the amount of tax dollars they would like to see allocated toward four areas: parks, recreation and culture; public works and transportation; protective services; and development services. There is also a survey, which provides an opportunity to residents to identify specific priorities.
All information gathered through the application will be considered by administration and Town council during budget discussion in the fall.
Joan Botkin, Town communications manager, said the tool is used by many municipalities and encourages public input and engagement in the budget planning process.
“It also increases the public’s understanding of how property taxes are used to fund services and programs,” said Botkin.
Citizen Budget can be found at www.okotoks.ca/budget2018, or hard copies can be completed at the Municipal Centre.
