As expected, Mayor Olivia Chow’s proposing a 9.5% property tax hike — 1% lower than staff recommended.

The announcement was made at the Scarborough Centre Station, where the mayor said the draft budget includes nearly $68-million to fully fund construction of the Scarborough busway; a dedicated right-of-way meant to replace the decommissioned Scarborough Rapid Transit line.

There’s also a $50 fund for state-of-good repair work, including fixing potholes and park maintenance as well as more for affordable housing.

However, despite intense lobbying, the proposal does not include the additional $20-million sought by Chief Myron Demkiw

 

 

”It will have consequences for service delivery and service degradation. 90% of what we spend in policing is on people. And what we need right now are more people,” the chief added.

Demkiw points out 25% of officers are eligible to retire now, and in 10-years the number jumps to 60%.

The mayor says all told police would receive a 10% increase of $60-million, including $10-million for policing protests and other major events.

The draft budget goes before city council February 14.