The upcoming city budget is like a pie and everybody wants a piece — but according to a Calgary political scientist, there’s not enough for everyone.
Calgarians are talking about city council’s controversial decision to pre-approve the Calgary police budget but Mount Royal University political analyst Keith Brownsey says this is just normal, pre-election manoeuvring.
“This isn’t new to the city; it’s something you see at budget time because the budget is like a pie, and everybody wants some, but there is only so much pie to cut up accordingly,” Brownsey said.
“The budget is very political — it’s about putting rubber to the pavement.”
Ward 9 Ald. Joe Ceci said while he doesn’t have any indication yet, he believes there will be more city sectors coming to the table with requests; much like the Calgary Police Service and fire department, who brought their concerns forward yesterday.
“I’ve voiced my concerns about this before but I think this decision makes budget time for the next council very challenging,” Ceci added.
