Chatham-Kent staff presented a proposed tax hike of 5.96 per cent during the opening night of budget Wednesday.
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It is the second year of the 2024-2027 multi-year budget process, which was adopted last year to assist with long-term fiscal planning.
This year’s initial figure was pegged at 8.17 per cent, however, various efficiencies, as well as a $2-million increase in Ontario Municipal Partnership funding, resulted in the decrease.
“We received some more funding than we had anticipated. We actually anticipated a cut … So, that was a pleasant surprise that does impact our budget,” Chatham Coun. Brock McGregor, budget chair, said after the meeting.
Wednesday featured a staff overview of the budget, as well as several public deputations.
The proposed increase works out to approximately $211 for an average household with an assessed value of $176,200.
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Maintaining existing services included 1.84 per cent of the 5.96 per cent hike, with asset management at 2.06 per cent. Social issue investments also make up 2.06 per cent.
Mayor Darrin Canniff said the budget committee will still face tough decisions, but credited staff for helping to improve the starting point.
“Our budget is more than just numbers on a page,” he said. “It is a roadmap towards the future, guided by our strategic plan and the priorities of the people we serve.”
Canniff noted the social impact of homelessness and the housing crisis, along with ensuring community safety and maintaining long-term care.
“These are not just financial challenges, they are human challenges. Ones that profoundly impact the lives of our neighbors, friends and families,” he said, adding that more help is needed from the federal and provincial governments.
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For those wishing to provide feedback on the budget, two virtual community consultation sessions are planned for Nov. 20 from noon to 1 pm and Nov. 21 from 7 pm to 8 pm at www.facebook.com/MunicCK
Budget deliberations start Nov. 26 in council chambers from 6 pm to 10 pm Deliberations continue Nov. 27 and Nov. 28, if required, at the same time and place.
The public can make a deputation regarding the budget on the first night of deliberations. Requests and submissions to make a deputation must be sent by email to [email protected] before noon on that date.
This story will be updated.
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