The Municipality of Leamington has approved a budget for 2022 that calls for a three per cent increase in the municipal tax levy.
Town Councillors approved the draft budget which will see the average household property tax bill go up by an estimated $36.61 per $100,000 of residential assessment. No increases were imposed during 2021.
In the draft, investments of $27.8 million in capital projects are included and another $51.8 million through the operating budget would go towards essential programs and services.
"I am pleased with the work and collaboration that went into preparing this mature budget that invests in Leamington’s future," said Mayor Hilda MacDonald. "This budget responds to the unique challenges of the past year while taking into account the service needs of our residents; required investment in our infrastructure and taxpayer affordability."
Some highlights of the budget include more of a focus on accessibility projects including the fire hall and courthouse entrances, and paving of some municipal trails near the soccer complex. Other focal points mentioned were road resurfacing and gravel elimination projects, drainage works, and a renewal to Mersea Park.
With COVID-19 still posing a threat to the region, the municipality said it also plans to provide additional contact-free services to keep the community and town staff safe, while also trying to modernize the way the services can be accessed.
