Algonquin students who take OC Transpo have another reason to look forward to the implementation of the U-Pass.
OC Transpo is seeking a fare increase of 2.5 per cent, meaning an adult bus pass will go from $100.75 to $103.00. A regular cash fare will go from $3.45 to $3.55.
The U-Pass, which will not be implemented until next September, will cost students $200 per semester.
At the current rate, if a student were to get an adult pass for eight months, the price would be in excess of $800.
The U-Pass represents a savings of over 50 per cent for students taking public transit.
Still, students are unhappy about the price increases.
“Is that a joke?” asked Leah Thaw – an academic upgrading student. “As if students aren’t already broke enough.”
“Maybe some exceptions should be made for seniors and students,” suggested Dwight Knee – an academic upgrading student.
“If prices go up students should not have to pay it,” Knee said. “If services aren’t going to increase then we shouldn’t have to pay.”
Also included in the draft budget is the revelation that the city will lift the price freeze on recreation fees at city facilities. Fees will increase by two per cent this coming year.
This means that a student gym membership will increase by just over six dollars, from $303 to $309.
By comparison, a 12 month pass at the Algonquin Fitness Zone remains at $300.
Property taxes will see an increase of 1.75 per cent – the lowest rate hike in eight years.
Students will also be affected by the proposed hike in water and sewer rates. The city is proposing a hike of six per cent. This translates to a $48 increase per household on average.
The budget had more goodies that could affect students. Affordable housing also received increased focus in the draft budget. The city has committed a $19 million capital investment in affordable housing.