The Red Deer & District Chamber of Commerce is giving a thumbs up to the city.
The chamber said it is encouraged by the proposed city budget, which includes a zero per cent tax increase through 2021 and 2022, as well as no more than a 0.5 per cent increase to utility rates and no increase to user fees.
“This is certainly an encouraging development that will provide much-needed relief to our business sector, many of whom never fully recovered from the economic decline that began in 2014,” said chamber CEO Rick More in a statement Thursday.
“It’s important to avoid any added cost to our businesses as we work to get through COVID-19 and the economic havoc caused by it.
“Undoubtedly, this move by the city will require some tough decisions to be made and we commend their willingness to undertake this unpleasant task.
“We have been advocating this position for the past four years on behalf of our members, encouraging council to pursue efficiencies and reduce spending.
“We’re thankful they are going in this direction and look forward to the opportunity to work with them to make this a reality.”