Taxpayers in Grey Highlands are facing a possible local property tax increase of 9.2 per cent in 2023.
Grey Highlands released a 2023 draft budget this week that includes a potential 9.2 per cent increase to the local portion of the property tax bill. Grey Highlands council will get down to the business of setting the 2023 budget at a special committee of the whole meeting on Dec. 14 starting at 9 a.m.
In a news release, Grey Highland said municipal staff have prepared a draft budget that considers the best cost estimate to provide existing approved service levels; while addressing council priorities, asset management, and planning for growth. Departments sought out revenue sources and cut costs wherever possible, which resulted in savings of 1.2 per cent of the overall budget.
Inflation is hitting the proposed budget hard. Fuel costs have risen and, with them, other areas like gravel and asphalt have gone up. The municipality is also seeing rising costs for curbside collection, insurance premiums, and remuneration.
The draft budget includes 29 additional items for council to consider, including resolutions of council, staff-identified needs, or items identified in a plan or study. The cost of these items is not included in the draft budget.
Highlights of the draft budget include:
- Renovations for the Markdale Library
- Kimberley Hall façade and roof repairs
- Bunker gear and equipment for Fire Services
- UV replacements for municipal facilities
- Strong investment in Asset Management
An increase of 9.2 per cent to the tax levy would see property taxes increase by $58 per $100,000 of assessment. The average dwelling in Grey Highlands is valued at $305,905. The draft budget impacts result in a proposed annual increase of $177 for the average home in 2023. The local portion of the property tax bill is one of three components that is joined with Grey County and the school boards for total tax bill.
“This year’s budget was extremely challenging given inflation and rising costs. Staff have worked diligently for months, recognized savings wherever possible, and proposed investment where needed. We have a strong, enthusiastic council who are eager to deliberate, and staff looks forward to working with them during the budget process,” said CAO Karen Govan.
The municipality launched a budget survey in September, asking residents what their priorities are in 2023 and how they would spend the budget. The municipality received over 300 responses that have been provided to council.
Additional opportunities are planned for the new year, including another survey and a public budget open house. Watch the town's website to see how you can be involved.
Budget deliberations are scheduled to start in January with the proposed dates:
- January 13, 2023 – 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
- January 20, 2023 – 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
- January 25, 2023 – 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
The draft 2023 budget documents and presentation are available here.
.jpg;w=120;h=80;mode=crop)
.png;w=120;h=80;mode=crop)
