Gatineau's mayor said his city is ready to absorb any downturn in the economy through a $15-million reserve fund, though transit fares are set to increase next year.
In a state of finance report, Mayor Marc Bureau said the multi-million dollar reserve fund is the envy of almost every city in Quebec.
Bureau said Gatineau also recorded a $10-million surplus last year.
Gatineau bus fares will rise 2.5 per cent in 2009, according to the Soci�t� de transport de l'Outaouais.
That means cash fares will rise by 10 cents. Transit officials say the increase is needed to cover the costs of expanded service and rising gas prices.
STO ridership is six per cent higher so far this year.
