The city of St. John’s has released a “what we heard” document on consultations held in advance of the budget for 2022.

The city received feedback on a number of topics such as changing demographics, the state of small business, the cost of living, taxes, and gaps in service for things such as snow clearing and public transit.

On the topic of taxes, the city heard that small businesses are taxed enough and a sliding tax scale should be created so that small businesses are taxed less than larger ones.

Overall, the city heard that taxes need to be kept stable and spending needs to be collectively reduced in order to keep costs as low as possible.

The city conducted two polls related to taxes on the Engage St. John’s site. Over 51 per cent said they would not support an increase in the mil rate to maintain current service levels, while 38 per cent said they would support such an increase.

Similarly, 50 per cent of people said they would not support a mil rate increase if it meant an upgrade to current service levels. Twenty-five per cent said they would support an increase, while another 25 per cent said they would—but only if they have input into which services are upgraded.

As well, the city heard that they should consider privatizing Metrobus and recreational services, and that they should sell the Mary Brown’s Centre.

The next public engagement session is being held virtually on November 25. Budget day is December 13.