WINNIPEG - January 25, 2012 - Winnipeggers have an opportunity to provide their input into the 2012 Operating Budget through an online survey, blog or at round-table discussions on Tuesday, January 31, 2012.
The operating budget allocates funding for the full range of City services, such as police, fire and paramedic services, water treatment, garbage collection, road construction and maintenance, libraries, and community centres. The City's tax supported 2011 Operating Budget totaled $847.3 million and $513.2 million in expenditures was budgeted for the Utilities and Special Operating Agencies.
The public consultation session will be held on Tuesday, January 31 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. in Room 5 on the main floor of the Winnipeg Convention Centre, 375 York Avenue.
A link to the Budget Consultation Blog, authored by the City's Chief Financial Officer, can be found on Winnipeg.ca. Through the blog, the public can ask questions pertaining to the 2012 Operating Budget and can participate in an online survey.
Winnipeg residents, businesses, community groups and associations are invited to offer input through the web or by attending the consultation session hosted by Councillor Scott Fielding, Chair of City Council's Standing Policy Committee on Finance, and supported by Mike Ruta, the City's Chief Financial Officer.
"We encourage residents to attend our public consultation session or fill in the online survey," said Councillor Fielding. "This valuable input will assist us in developing the Operating Budget, which will determine the scope and level of City services and help us better meet the needs and priorities of Winnipeggers."
Pre-registration is appreciated, but not required, and walk-ins are welcome. Should you wish to pre-register, please email budget@winnipeg.ca or call 204-986-4242.