Wellington County Council has adopted the 2018 budget, which calls for a 2.5% increase in the county portion of property taxes.
Warden Denis Lever says they also passed a ten-year plan today to demonstrate their commitment to investing in the long-term improvement and sustainability of infrastructure and healthcare.
He says they are investing in roads, bridges, public works facilities, hospitals, ambulance stations, and solid waste facilities.
Some of the highlights include $25-million for the Drayton Shop and replacing public works facilities in Arthur, Erin, Brucedale, and Harriston.
Winter maintenance will be enhanced, along with social and affordable housing.
An ambulance station feasibility study will be completed the year as they propose to build six new ambulance stations in the county.
The county also plans tax rebates for low-income seniors and persons with disabilities. And a feasibility study will examine Wellington Place Lands for looking at the options for long-term care, assisted living, affordable housing, and life lease condos.
Lever says planning for the closure of Phase I and the opening of Phase II at the Riverstown Landfill will get underway.
“This budget and ten-year plan are focused on meeting both the County’s short-term and long-term needs,” says Chris White, Administration, chair of finance and human resources. “Having a detailed multi-year plan, allows the county to carefully manage spending while strategically protecting and improving our infrastructure and core services.”