The Town of The Blue Mountains has received significant financial relief from the province for its 2025 OPP bill.
In a news release, the town said it welcomes the news that the Ontario government is proposing to provide over $77 million in financial relief to small and rural municipalities to help offset the increased cost of services provided by the OPP.
Prior to the province’s funding announcement, the town was facing a nearly 20 per cent increase in OPP costing. Under the proposed billing changes from the province, the town will receive $487,645 in financial support, which lowers the increase in OPP costs to three per cent.
“We are very pleased to have received this funding from the province,” said Mayor Andrea Matrosovs. “As council and town staff continue to work on a draft 2025 budget, this will help us lower the projected tax rate increase while delivering the services our ratepayers expect. I’d like to thank Solicitor General Kerzner for hearing our concerns as a rural municipality and providing this relief.”
The town will release a draft budget later this month for public review and input. The proposed budget will include the 2025 operating budget, a five-year capital budget, and proposed fees and charges. The proposed budget will serve as a starting point for budget discussions with council and members of the public.
Council will review and deliberate the budget at a series of special budget meetings beginning on Jan. 7, 2025.
Local residents are encouraged to participate and share feedback with council throughout the budget process. Those interested in learning more, how to participate in a meeting or who want to make comments can visit the website here.
Full information on the budget process is available at the website here.
For more information, please contact Monica Quinlan, director of corporate and financial services/treasurer at (519) 599-3131 ext. 231.
