North Battleford city administration is proposing a 10 per cent hike in business license fees.
A bylaw that would amend the current licensing bylaw to set the increases went through two readings of council Monday, but a final decision on the increases has been put off until two weeks later as council seeks feedback from the community and businesses about whether there is an appetite for such an increase.
The proposed increases range from a couple of dollars to up to $105 for transient traders. It would be the first time fees were increased since 2011 and would raise an estimated $18,000 in revenue, according to estimates from city administration.
But the hike was too steep for some councillors to swallow.
One of those expressing concern was Councillor Trent Houk. He made clear he thought a 10 per cent hike was too steep and proposed a lower five per cent increase instead.
"This year, with ever increasing fees and everything across the board, the city of North Battleford will have a really tough time swallowing this one," said Houk. "I think it's time to give the community a little bit of a break. We've raised virtually every fee we possibly could from budget time until now in this community, and it's time to hold off, in my opinion."
Councillor Ryan Bater took a similar stance, expressing his concern the proposed fee schedule seemed on the high side compared to other communities. Councillor Greg Lightfoot, however, expressed support for the 10 per cent increase.
Councillors are seeking feedback from the public on the issue, which will come back to council for more discussion April 22.
