Council discusses The Skinny, six percent tax increase 

At the regular meeting of council Tuesday afternoon, Bob Covey, editor of The Skinny, presented a powerpoint presentation updating municipal councillors regarding the success of the community publication. 

Emphasizing “where we are going” and “where we should go,” Covey discussed some of the events that have taken place over the six month trial period, such as The Skinny’s open house, attended by approximately 180 people. 

Held at the Jasper Artist’s Guild, open house guests provided feedback by way of ‘dot-mocracy’, or placing stickers on the features of the publication to reflect their likes and dislikes. Social inclusion seemed to be the most important element of the Skinny’s purpose, but it’s unclear if it has played a part in reducing late-night noise and trouble referred to as the Patricia Street Predicament.  

Although crime for this period of the year has decreased over the same time last year, it is unclear if the Skinny contributed to the decrease.  

The 2009 municipal budget was also discussed. Though councillors have spent eight hours in formal dialogue with town managers, they said they still have more work to do before the final budget is tabled.  

Concerned citizen Dennis Zaffino expressed frustration with the proposed 6.5 per cent tax increase for next year as well as a lack of specificity in the proposed budget posted on the municipality’s website.  

According to Mayor Richard Ireland, the goal of council is to see “what would it take to keep the overall level of municipal services” available to Jasperites when working on next year’s budget. Some avenues being looked at to increase revenues are paid parking and user fees for recycling, said George Krefting, but these are only some options to be considered.  

On Jan. 8, there will be a public information session for community members to provide comments on the proposed budget. It’s likely there will be changes to the proposed budget by the information session on the 8th. 

Highlights of the budget and comments from the municipal manager are both on the town’s website, www.jasper-alberta.com.