Quinte West Council voted to approve the City’s 2023 budget at today’s Special Council – Budget meeting.
The approved 2023 budget of $74.3 million reflects an overall 5.36% total tax increase that will support city services, roads, facilities and key projects.
Highlights of the 2023 budget include:
● A capital investment of 2% of the 5.36% total tax levy ($1.3 million) will fund long-term investments in key City projects.
● $28 million in funding to external agencies that deliver important community programs and services, including public health and health care services, conservation authorities, transit, and libraries.
● $850,000 in combined increased funding to local Police, Fire and Emergency Services.
● Contribute $150,000 to the Housing Affordability reserve in support of improving access and supply of affordable housing in Quinte West.
● $476,000 in Community Fund grants to over 40 local organizations that provide arts and culture, youth, seniors, and safety programs, and deliver community events.
● $800,000 in additional funding to the City’s salting, sanding, and snow plowing Winter Control program.
A copy of the approved 2023 budget report will be available online at quintewest.ca/budget.
Quote
Jim Harrison, Mayor of Quinte West
“Throughout the entire budget process, Council has worked to ensure the 2023 budget balances the need to limit tax increases with revenue generation and cost-saving options that ensure fiscal accountability in the delivery of key City projects and services.”
Quick Facts
Each year, the City budgets for expenditures in the following areas:
● The capital budget is based on a ten-year plan that outlines how the City will spend money on long-term investments, such as renewing existing roadways, renovating City buildings and arenas, and buying equipment used to provide services. The approved 2023 budget allocates an additional $1.3 million (2% of the total tax levy) to the City’s Capital program.
● The operating budget outlines the City’s annual expected revenue and expenditures, and funds the day-to-day costs of delivering services such as fire protection, maintenance of parks, economic development services, and the delivery of community events. The 2023 operating budget is $74.3 million
● The water and wastewater budget outlines the annual expenses related to ensuring clean drinking water and the treatment of wastewater, as well as the maintenance and repair of wastewater treatment facilities and sewer systems. The 2023 water and wastewater budget is $22 million.
● Funding to external agencies supports local organizations that deliver important community programs and services, including public health and health care services, conservation authorities, transit, and libraries. In 2023, the City will provide $28 million in funding to external agencies.