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Draft Edmonton budget proposes hefty tax hike

Last Updated: Thursday, November 8, 2007 | 12:13 PM MT

Edmonton homeowners could be facing a 10.9 per cent property tax increase if council accepts the recommendations of city manager Al Maurer.

Council met Thursday to review the contents of the proposed budget.

Maurer told council about two-thirds of the proposed 10.9 per cent hike is needed just to maintain the current level of services.

The remainder of the increase is necessary to pay for extras such as additional snow removal and paving, he said.

A tax increase of 10.9 per cent would mean the average homeowner would pay an extra $138 per year.

Council will review the proposed budget and the public will get a chance to comment on the contents in the next few weeks.

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