On Monday night Grimsby Council passed the 2008 general levy and tax rates, coming in with a .91 per cent increase for those with sewer service and a .95 per cent increase for properties without sewer service.

The increases based on the median residential unit assessed at $224,000, is $30.44 for properties with sewer service and $28.01 for properties without sewer service, says Director of Finance and Treasurer Steven Gruninger.

Ald. Steve Berry commended Council and town staff for establishing the rate it did.

"I think that's the lowest I've seen it in my eight years (on council)," said Ald. Berry. "It's nice to see under 1 per cent."

The town's levy increase came in at 2.66 per cent. Once combined with the regional and school board levies, however, it reduced the impact for taxpayers due to the tax distribution ratios.

"Hopefully this is a sign of things to come," said Mayor Bob Bentley, describing the budget as "very prudent".

Specifically, he said, the Region is looking at improving funding levels from the upper levels of government.

This year, for example, the province uploaded a significant amount of social services funding.