The clock is ticking if you haven't used the Town of Essex's interactive budget tool. The deadline is August 31.
"Community engagement is a top priority for us, and we're thrilled to provide the opportunity for residents to actively contribute to our town's future," said Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy. "Your feedback will play an important role in the budget process, and we encourage everyone to participate and make their voices heard."
The town has even sweetened the pot by offering those who participate the chance to win one of four $25 gift cards.
Residents and business owners can create their own draft budget by allocating funds towards capital initiatives. Common themes will help administrators and councillors identify priorities for 2025.
If you have thoughts about sidewalks and trails, road repairs, arts, culture and tourism, climate initiatives, flood prevention, and emergency response, the town wants to hear them on its website. You can provide suggestions if you don't see them among the options.
It's no easy task creating a municipal budget that addresses the town's challenges, including maintaining a high level of service, inflation costs, and balancing the quality of life.
Budget categories are curated to address the needs of the community. Each one is assigned a specific cost based on what goes into the actual budget.
Essex maintains responsibility for 324 km of roads, 97 bridges and culverts, 94 km of stormwater mains, 328 km of water mains and about 100 km of wastewater mains.
Anyone who has a question about the budget can email budget@essex.ca.
