The Town of South Bruce Peninsula has given the green light to its 2024 Operating and Capital budget.
The decision, made during the November 21, 2023, Council meeting, comes with a 4.99% tax levy increase. The approved budget, totaling $12,343,860, allocates funds primarily to the operating budget ($5,818,680), capital program ($4,191,180), and policing ($2,334,000). For an average assessed residential property of $213,000, this translates to an annual increase of $62.53.
Mayor Jay Kirkland emphasizes that supply chain issues and rising material costs influenced financial decisions.
Noteworthy capital investments include a new clay surface and LED lights for Bluewater Park Ball Diamond, bridge work on Park Head Road, road improvements on Second Ave, Mallory Beach Rd design phase, Spry Lake Road upgrades, a new plow truck and backhoe, Gould Street and Pengally reconstruction, and an extra $90,000 for future asset management needs.
The decision to defer the $240,000 landfill expansion reserve contribution aims to allow for a recalibration of useful life and revised timelines for existing facilities.