Residents of Grey highlands will pay about $160 more in property taxes this year.
Council approved a 7.62 per cent increase in an effort to support investments in roads, facilities, and community spaces. The municipality reported that an increase of 7.62 per cent to the tax levy would see property taxes increase by $52 per $100,000 of assessment.
The average dwelling in Grey Highlands is assessed at $305,908.
"This was one of the most challenging budgets we have ever tackled. I tried to encourage out-of-the-box thinking to find savings,” said Mayor Paul McQueen. “Overall, we’ve landed in a position that, supports our growing community and invests in facilities and infrastructure without sacrificing service delivery.”
Several opportunities for community feedback were incorporated throughout the budget process. In December 2023, a budget questionnaire was launched on the ConnectGreyHighlands.ca platform for civic participation, inviting the public to share their ideas on funding supplementary budget items and tackling key priorities.
Additionally, a Budget Town Hall took place in February, asking residents to offer their perspectives and recommendations regarding the preliminary budget to the Council.
CAO Karen Govan said council was meticulous in their budget deliberations.
“They balanced service delivery, investment, and challenging inflation costs. Staff will continue to find efficiencies and optimize the service delivery to the community,” she explained.
Highlights of the 2024 Budget:
• West Back Line culvert replacements
• Asphalt resurfacing - St. Vincent/Euphrasia
• Asphalt resurfacing - Margaret Elizabeth
• Alice Street construction
• Sound systems for municipal halls
• Wage market check and 2 per cent COLA (cost of living allowance)
• Annual volunteer recognition and Markdale Jubilee events
• Kimberley, Rocklyn, and Stothart Hall repairs and upgrades
• Flesherton Park court repairs and Eugenia Pavilion (phase 2)
• Additional arena staff
• Water & Wastewater building maintenance
• Sea container - Osprey Waste Diversion Site
• Kimberley-Amik high lift pump & motor
• Water softener & iron treatment systems
• Traffic barrier arm - Markdale Waste Diversion Site
• Station 1 addition and extraction tools (Fire Services)