Lincoln opens shared services door

By Mike Williscraft NewsNow

Budget season is always a grind, no matter the level of government.

At the local municipal level, especially this year, everything is on the table and that could lead to some major structural changes.

As part of its 2023 budget process, Lincoln passed a motion formally opening the door to additional shared services with neighbouring municipalities to improve services while keeping costs in check.

Lincoln council directed CAO Mike Kirkopoulos to explore and initiate more shared services.

“Including a motion calling for the investigation of additional opportunities for shared services with other local area municipalities in Niagara, will allow us to find efficiencies while continuing to lead the way in service delivery,” said Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton.

Timing could be key to possible measures with Grimsby as a hunt for a new director of planning and chief administrative officer is currently ongoing.

Grimsby Mayor Jeff Jordan said all possibilities are on the table but with a key caveat.

“We want to look for any way we can work together with other municipalities in Niagara West if it means being more efficient and controlling costs. If we get better bang for our buck, it makes good sense,” said Jordan.

“But, we would always want to ensure we keep our municipality’s autonomy. Our communities mean a lot to each of us. It is the fabric of why people want to live here. We would not change that in any way, shape or form.”