Town of Bancroft council continued discussions on the 2026 proposed budget yesterday, focusing on an amendment to alter user fees at the North Hastings Community Centre.
An amendment to the budget was passed earlier this month to reduce non-resident user fees and increase the ice rental rates, but town staff tabled a report, saying the proposed changes would result in a non-balanced budget.
The original budget amendment was rescinded at yesterday’s meeting.
Council discussed how non-resident user fees are intended to have people from outside the town, who make up the majority of arena users, contribute financially to its upkeep.
However, some organizations have chosen to stop using the arena because of the fees.
Alternative options were discussed, with a motion passed to put non-resident user fees at $250 per person, per season, and increase the ice rental rate by $28.32 an hour.
Under strong mayor powers, the mayor may choose to veto budget amendments and has until March 5 to do so.
After that, council may override mayoral vetos through a vote.
