Good evening everyone!

Tonight the 2015 non-tax supported budget was passed by council. Our staff originally predicted future budgets at a 10% increase year over year. Instead they presented to this council a 4.3% increase and then with further tweaking landed it at 4.1%.

This budget comprises of:

Wastewater Services:

The $28.8 million operating and $192.1 million 10-year capital budget and forecast support continued optimization of Guelph’s wastewater systems.

Building Services:

The $3 million operating and $166,000 10-year capital budget and forecast include continued investments to improve the City’s online building permit application system, and enhance service to residential and commercial customers.

Court Services:

The $3.35 million operating and $682,400 10-year capital budget and forecast include plans to implement convenient e-ticket processes.

These departments are funded through fees and rates. Not through your property taxes. This 4.1% increase over 2014 is approximately $2.58 per month for average residential annual bill.

Here is a link to the city media release: CLICK HERE

All budget related info is HERE

Next dates you should be aware of are:

February 25 – Proposed Capital Budget presentation and public delegations

February 26 – Proposed Local Boards Operating and Capital Budget presentation

March 5 – Proposed Operating Budget presentation

March 11 – Public delegation night

March 25 – Council deliberates and approves Operating and Capital budgets

March 31 – additional meeting for budget approvals if necessary

Thank you and take care,

Cam