High-Level Summary:

The city council meeting focused on financial management and infrastructure planning, emphasizing the city's strategy for asset management and revenue generation. Key participants included Mr. Del Monaco, the Finance Director, Councillor Vardy, and Councillor How, who played critical roles in discussing procedural and financial matters impacting community services and infrastructure.

Important Topics Discussed:

1. Appointment of Auditors (File Finance 24-31):
   The council discussed appointing KPMG as external auditors for 2024-2026, with options for extensions. Mr. Del Monaco assured, "there's no budget impacts as a result of this change," reflecting confidence in the decision's financial neutrality. This appointment aims to safeguard the town's fiscal responsibility through professional oversight.

2. User Fees and Charges Update (File Finance 24-32):
   Daniel Blazekovic highlighted potential revenue increases through adjustments of user fees. He stated, "generate significant additional annual revenue for the town," emphasizing the importance of maintaining financial health without altering essential public services. This adjustment could directly affect residents' expenditure on town services.

3. Cemetery Fees Concerns:
   Councillor Vardy raised concerns about Grimsby's cemetery fees versus neighboring towns, suggesting, "residents could seek alternatives." This prompted discussions on whether fees were deterring residents and if adjustments or a fee study are necessary to remain competitive.

4. Fire Services Cost Recovery:
   The council addressed challenges in cost recovery for Grimsby Fire Department's services, especially in mutual aid scenarios. Adjustments in fees were deliberated to enhance compensation balance. Ensuring that first responder services remain sustainable is a core focus for local safety.

5. Asset Management and Infrastructure Planning:
   Discussions on reserve funds and capital financing stressed the need for sustainable infrastructure planning. The council emphasized the risks of incomplete asset management strategies, highlighting the importance of fiscally responsible planning to meet long-term infrastructure needs.

Opportunities for Public Input:

Residents can potentially provide input on user fee adjustments, especially as the council explores significant changes. Attending upcoming meetings or contacting council members may allow for public suggestions or concerns to be addressed.

Motions and Outcomes:

• Approval of Amended Agenda: Passed, enabling the inclusion of resignation motions.
• Appointment of KPMG as External Auditors (Finance 24-31): Passed, ensuring robust fiscal oversight.
• Cemetery Fee Study Motion: Passed, directing further investigation into fee structures.
• User Fee Review Back to Staff: Passed, requesting detailed reports and further council review.
• No motions were rejected during this meeting.

Follow-Up Actions:

• Staff to prepare a detailed report on user fees aligning with regional benchmarks.
• Further exploration of fire service fee adjustments to improve cost recovery.
• Continued focus on adjusting buy-in to maintain affordable cemetery services.

Councillors Present:

• Councillor Vardy
• Councillor How
• Member Hutchings (present at initial meeting stage)