For Immediate Release
Thursday, November 28, 2024 – Port Hope, ON
Port Hope Council has approved the Municipality’s 2025 Budget, marking the culmination of a thorough planning and consultation process that balances fiscal responsibility with the maintenance of community service. The approved budget totals $56 million, supporting services, infrastructure improvements, and operational priorities. The municipal levy for 2025 is set at $29.6 million, resulting in an estimated $178 increase for a typical homeowner based on current property assessments.
“The 2025 budget reflects our commitment to maintaining fiscal responsibility while responding to the priorities voiced by our residents through the budget engagement survey that we conducted this fall,” notes Mayor Olena Hankivsky. “Around the Council table, we had robust conversations about affordability and strived to ensure a lean budget that delivers the services and infrastructure improvements our community relies on, while managing costs in a responsible way. We value the community’s engagement and feedback throughout this process and remain committed to working hard for our residents and the continued progress of our community.”
A significant aspect of the budget is funding the final phase of the Walton Street reconstruction project. This $4 million investment will be drawn from the Hydro Reserve. This new approach ensures no 2025 tax levy increase for capital projects. The budget also addresses inflationary pressures and emphasizes the completion of ongoing capital projects while maintaining services.
The 2025 budget prioritizes several critical projects to enhance infrastructure, public safety, and economic growth, all of which were identified as priority areas for those who participated in the 2025 Budget Survey. Key initiatives include:
- Rural Road Upgrades: Maintenance and improvements to 17.5 kilometers of rural roads.
- Equipment Purchases: Acquisition of essential equipment, including:
- Two new snowplows to support winter road maintenance
- A wilderness fire protection truck.
- An updated audio-visual system in the Council Chambers.
- Facility Maintenance: Significant updates to HVAC and dehumidification at the Jack Burger Sports Complex to continue the delivery of services in our recreation spaces.
- Pump Park: a new pump park, which is funded by a grant.
- Economic Development: Funding to implement the economic development plan and attract new businesses to the community.
- Waterfront and Riverwalk Master Plan: Resources allocated for shoreline and sediment studies to advance this long-term initiative.
- Fire Station #2 Construction Planning: Funding for the continuation of design work in preparation for the station’s future replacement.
- Community Support: Funding for Community Grants, donations, and foundational support initiatives to assist a total of 18 local organizations.
- Floodplain Mapping: Investments in updated floodplain mapping to improve planning and risk management.
- Personnel: Staff resources to maintain services.
“By passing the 2025 budget early, we’re not only ensuring fiscal responsibility, but we’re also setting the stage for immediate action,” continues Mayor Hankivsky. “This proactive step allows us to begin procuring the materials, equipment, and resources needed to deliver the projects and services outlined in the budget. It means that come January, we can roll up our sleeves and get right to work—whether it’s starting construction on vital infrastructure, supporting local businesses through economic development initiatives, or enhancing public safety with new equipment for our Fire Department. This early approval allows us to begin work promptly and take full advantage of the opportunities ahead for our community.”
Throughout the development of the budget, Council engaged with the public through meetings and presentations throughout October and November, covering key topics such as user fees, community grants, reserve allocations, and departmental budgets. The Municipality conducted a budget survey that saw unprecedented community participation, thanks to the efforts of staff and Council members. The feedback collected has informed decision-making for the 2025 budget and will serve as a valuable resource for future strategic planning initiatives.
The budget process culminated in a full-day budget deliberation session on November 19, open to the public and streamed online.
Residents are encouraged to review budget documents and recordings available on the Municipality’s website. Updates on the implementation of budget initiatives will be shared through the Municipality’s communication channels, including the website and social media.
2024-11-28
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