Barrie city council met for the first time Monday evening. 

After a holiday break that saw COVID-19 cases skyrocket across the Province, the virtual meeting handled a controversial planning amendment and kicked off 2021 budget discussions. 

A four-building, 1900-unit development has been in the works in Barrie's downtown since June. It's drawn criticism from nearby residents: it's the biggest development in downtown Barrie's history.

The development, to be built by Barrie Lakeshore Developments, includes 41, 38, 35 and 25 storey buildings. That includes a hotel. 

Two members of the public voiced opposition to the development through deputations to council. 

"The over-Intensification will have an impact on parklands, people and personal space of existing Barrie residents," said Doug McLaren.

However, all councillors except Councilor Riepma voiced support for the development. The motion, to amend by-laws to allow the proposed heights and size of the development, passed with only Riepma voting against it. 

Police, Library, County of Simcoe request boost to budgets

Chief Kimberley Greenwood of the Barrie Police Service presented the force's 2021 budget. A 2.65% increase in the force's request is centralized in $52.8 million in salaries and benefits for 244 officers, and 118 civilians on the force's staff.

The 2.65% increase was met with scrutiny. Councilor Aylwin compared the increase with the Toronto Police Service's zero percent budget increase for 2021. "The chief said something along the lines of, 'we heard the community, we are committed to do more with less,'" Councilor Aylwin said. "Why can't the Barrie Police Service do the same?" 

Chief Greenwood explained that while the service is asking for an increase, they are "committed to meeting the safety and well-being needs of those in our community." 

Barrie Public Library also submitted a proposal which includes a 1.95 per cent budget increase. That reflects operating costs but also an injection of capital funds into establishing a new library in the neighborhood of Holly. 

"We are prepared for, and excited, to grow Barrie's library system," said Austin Mitchell, Chair of Barrie Public Library Board of Trustees, in a presentation to council. "We are asking for council's support to provide expanded service to this neighborhood."

Along with operating costs, the budget includes funds for a new 911 call system, vehicles, and a body camera project. 

The county of Simcoe's Budget reflects major changes due to COVID-19. The county, responsible for administering LTC homes and paramedic services, requests a 7.7 per cent increase in budget. 

According to the County's report, COVID-19 forced $13.5 million in extra expenditures -- primarily in LTC homes.