The St. John’s Board of Trade is asking city officials not to depend on taxpayers to balance the municipal budget and to explore the idea of selling Mile One.

Councillor Dave Lane last week indicated that the city is facing a $13-million deficit this year and indicated that options are being discussed.

The Board of Trade is urging the city not to look to its members, which are predominately small businesses—including not-for-profits—as the solution for balancing the books.

CEO AnnMarie Boudreau says tax increases could push businesses, already teetering on the brink, over the edge.

As for whether the city should unload Mile One, the Board of Trade suggests that the city owes it to the taxpayers and businesses to evaluate all ideas that may help eliminate the deficit and avoid tax hikes.