"I think that we had a slight increase this year, that had a large part to do with an enhancement with the OPP (contract). I think the investment in the OPP is very well spent," said Mayor David Guergis.

The township, along with New Tecumseth and Adjala-Tosorontio, renewed its contract with Nottawasaga OPP. The contract comes into effect this year and provides provisions for the hiring of three additional officers, and one sergeant this year. There will be three additional officers hired annually for the next five years.

The contract has caused Essa's overall police budget to rise about 15 per cent, from $1,964,23 to $2,249,120.

The budget passed by a vote of 4-1, with only Deputy Mayor Terry Dowdall voting against it. He said he did not approve of a three per cent increase in municipal staff wages, because it was more than the inflation of cost of living.

"I think a true cost of living (increase) is what they predict, not a three per cent raise," he said after the meeting.

Ongoing and recent Ontario Municipal Board hearings and decisions have also increased spending, causing the planning budget to almost double to $475,714. Last year the township spent $31,314 on OMB expenses, where as this year's draft budget allots $225,000. Township staff would not comment on the ongoing legal proceedings.

The township is currently in the closing stages of a five-year legal battle with Barrie Paintball, which could see the township pay as much as $400,000 in damages.