Huntsville’s General Committee approved the 2023 Consolidated Budget. The budget is set to be adopted at the Regular Council Meeting on February 27, 2023.
Committee’s endorsement supports an increase of $1,361,124 in capital and operational investment for 2023 and an increase to the 2023 tax rate of 5.29%, which equates to an increase of $21 per $100,000 of assessment for the year on the Town portion of the property tax bill. Factoring in general upper tier and educational levies, it is expected that the overall impact to the tax bill will be approximately 3.44% higher than 2022.
“Recognizing the challenges we all face with inflation, rising interest rates and Covid-19 recovery, bringing forward a budget that balances affordability and strategic investment is important. The 2023 budget reflects fiscal responsibility and operational efficiency to support community wellbeing,” stated Denise Corry, CAO.
The 2023 Budget supports current services levels, and objectives in Huntsville’s operational plans and strategies as well as critical infrastructure improvements. In addition, it supports new committees such as Active Transportation and Public Transit, Community Services Master Plan, Waterfront Strategy as well as Environment and Climate Change, which will help support future Council decisions.
In addition to the Town of Huntsville tax portion, the Local Share contribution for the redevelopment of the hospital will be included in the final budget. The “local share” is the portion of the total cost of the hospital project that must be funded by the community the hospital serves and is a requirement by the Ministry of Health for any new application for hospital projects. For 2023, the Town of Huntsville has committed $230,000 toward Huntsville’s contribution to the Local Share.
“The 2023 Budget supports the services our community requires now and the growth that is forecast in our future. We have made critical strategic plans which include the creation of new committees that will focus on enhancing the quality of life for our residents and future generations. Our infrastructure plans focus on renewal of our assets as well as setting strategy for future sustainability. I am very proud of the work Committee and Staff have done on the development of the 2023 Budget, which sets the foundation for a vital and healthy community,” notes Huntsville Mayor, Nancy Alcock.
Members of the public are welcome to watch the Regular Council Meeting in person or online at Huntsville.ca on February 27, 2023 when the budget will be formally considered for approval. For meeting agenda details visit Huntsville.ca for full details.
For more information on the Town of Huntsville’s Budget and process please visit Huntsville.ca.