County Council Approves 2024 Budget with 5.3% Tax Increase

County council has approved the 2024 municipal budget, finalizing a 5.3 per cent property tax increase after several days of deliberations that significantly reduced the originally proposed hike.

Following public feedback and in-depth budget discussions, council identified projects to delay or cancel while protecting core services, particularly investments in roads and infrastructure.

Operating and Capital Budgets

The tax-supported operating budget for 2024 totals $75.2 million, with $50.7 million raised through taxation. This funding supports essential services including road and bridge maintenance, waste collection, policing, recreation, emergency services, libraries, museums, community programs, and long-term care.

The approved tax increase translates to an average of about $56 per $100,000 of assessed property value.

Council also approved a $116.1 million capital budget focused on road repairs, infrastructure upgrades, municipal facilities, and equipment purchases. This includes $94.7 million earmarked for long-term care redevelopment, pending additional provincial funding.

Key Infrastructure Investments

Major projects in the 2024 capital plan include:

• $4.3 million for rural road rehabilitation under the County’s five-year road improvement plan

• $2 million for culvert replacements on County Road 49, with additional funding to be pursued through grants and cost-sharing

• Phase 3 of the Picton Main Street reconstruction, including road, water, and wastewater upgrades

Community & Service Highlights

Additional budget commitments include:

• $350,000 to support family physician recruitment and retention

• $428,000+ for community grants, recreation programs, food security, and seniors services

• $618,000 for community improvement projects funded through the Parkland Reserve

• A new firefighter training facility, supported in part by community donations

Water, Wastewater & Financial Relief

Council approved water and wastewater operating and capital budgets totaling more than $22 million, largely financed through debt without immediate impact on rates. A community working group will be formed in 2024 to guide future rate decisions.

The Municipal Financial Relief Program was also renewed, offering property tax and water bill assistance to low-income households, with support levels based on income thresholds.