PRESS RELEASE
Town of BWG Council Delivers a Budget that Balances
Strategic Priorities and Fiscal Responsibility
Bradford West Gwillimbury (February 24, 2023) – After two days of thoughtful deliberation, Town of BWG Council refined the 2023 budget, agreeing on a 5.63% overall increase for local tax payers.
The total of all additions proposed by staff would have resulted in a 6.45% tax increase. Through their discussions, Council arrived at a budget increase that balances fiscal responsibility with a growing demand for better services. Prioritizing investments in community safety and youth programming, the budget also provides for enhancements in parks and facilities; improvements to our environment and transit; continued revitalization of older neighbourhoods; and greater economic development initiatives.
The enhancements that Council has approved in the 2023 budget will help us manage the growing needs of our municipality and the strategic priorities set by Council. – Geoff McKnight, CAO
As illustrated on the right, the chart captures the overall 2023 tax impact (5.63%) for our residents. In 2023, for every 100 tax dollars collected:
- $29.43 is for town services,
- $3.52 is for library services,
- $9.01 is for capital infrastructure,
- $13.80 is for South Simcoe Police Service,
- $28.92 is for the County of Simcoe,
- $15.32 is for the provincial education levy.
This increase equates to 275.37 additional dollars for the average household in BWG.
We had very challenging decisions to make, and every single line item of every department was discussed and deliberated. I am confident that we have come to a well-balanced solution for the Town portion of our budget that focuses on short-term priorities to help us realize our long-term goals, while setting aside funds for the Town’s asset management plan. – Mayor James Leduc
Budget deliberations were held during a special meeting of Committee of the Whole, on February 23rd and 24th. The budget will be approved during the March 7th Council meeting.
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