Schreiber at a crossroads: north shore communtity cuts municipal staff.

• Author: Ross, Ian
• Position: NEWS

The Township of Schreiber is looking for answers from its residents after announcing layoffs of four municipal staff, including its community development officer.

A declining industrial and commercial base is forcing the township of 900 on the north shore of Lake Superior to make some tough administrative decisions.

With the cuts taking place on July 12, the municipality called a town hall in late May to discuss the municipality's financial situation and the overall future of the community.

"I think it sends out a message loud and clear that there's a financial struggle going on here," said Mayor Don McArthur. "Certainly I've had feedback saying, how do you cut your community development, that's the future and lifeblood of the community?" With properties in tax arrears, revenues shrinking, no industrial tax base and an aging population, the township ran a budget deficit in 2010 of more than $60,000. The municipality is proposing a 6.7 per cent tax hike.

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It's an awful choice to have to make," said McArthur.

About 70 residents attended the meeting. McArthur said there was "great concern and passion" about eliminating the development officer's position, but there were "no real thoughts on alternative measures."

McArthur said future development inquiries will be handled by council and municipal staff. "It's going to be hugely challenging."

Schreiber serves as a bedroom community for residents working at nearby Terrace Bay Pulp.

The township has a 125-year relationship with...