In the days immediately following the recent Provincial Budget, it seemed that the answer to almost EVERY question was a firm...'I don't know'.
Even now, despite the fact that we have all had a few weeks to 'analyze' and 'process the new reality', there are still a number of people and organizations that are not sure what the full impact of the budget will be on them.
Mayor Buck Bright notes that the Town of Kipling is not immune to the uncertainty. Nonetheless, he remains optimistic that the Town will be well able to navigate through these troubled economic waters.
"We certainly have lost some funding," says Buck. "As a result, the Town of Kipling has reduced capital spending so that our books can remain balanced despite the loss of funding from the Province."
Buck observes that the Provincial Government's decision to download its debt problems onto various agencies and organizations may mean an increased cost for the Town in some areas. The unanticipated cut in funding to Regional Libraries for example, will mean that extra dollars are required to keep this community's library open and operating the way patrons have come to expect.
The Town has an agreement with Southeast Regional Library,î Buck explains. ìIf the library needs to increase its revenue then the Town of Kipling may be asked to pay more in order to offset that deficiency as per our agreement with Southeast Regional Library."
However, amid all of the turmoil caused by the Budget, Buck notes that there has been some positive news for Kipling this spring. He says that there are indications that something may finally be done about the old hospital and nurse's residence.
"Through the combined efforts of Sun Country Health Region, Ministry of Health officials, Steven Bonk MLA and the Town of Kipling, a decision has been made to move forward with plans to demolish the old hospital and the nurse's residence. Sun Country will be taking the lead on this. The necessary next step will be a Call for Tenders. But, it is my understanding that the funds have been secured for this project and that it will go ahead. This is very good news for the Town of Kipling."
Buck adds that there will be an opportunity for residents to ask questions and gain information on these and other topics.
"We are planning to have an open 'Town Hall Meeting' in the near future. That will give people the chance to ask questions about any issues that they might have concerns about."
