The Council of the United Counties of Prescott and Russell (UCPR) has requested that the increase in the tax levy for the 2026 budget be limited to 4.61%, rather than the 5.61% initially proposed.
A 1% increase is equivalent to $628,000 in additional revenue. Elected officials, including The Nation Mayor Francis Brière, criticized the creation of 17 new positions, deeming the measure disconnected from the current economic context.
Clarence-Rockland Mayor Mario Zanth asked that council take more time before adopting the budget, saying that it is necessary to “think carefully” and that budgets become more complex with limited resources.
The final budget will be presented on 12 November for adoption on 26 November.