By Cecilia Nasmith
Receiving the recommended 2020 county budget from Finance Director and Treasurer Glenn Dees Wednesday, Northumberland County council found the report consistent with the target they set in June at the outset of the budget process.
The $140.6-million budget calls for a 3% increase in the county levy after property assessment growth.
The announcement issued by the county estimates the overall impact of this levy increase to a median single-family detached house at $29.20, “though this is subject to change based on tax policy and information from the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation, both of which will be finalized in the spring.
“This draft budget establishes a concrete course of action for delivering the programs and services expected by our residents, in a way that prioritizes efficiency in county operations and value for the local taxpayer,” Warden Bob Sanderson stated in the news release.
“As we prepare to vote on this budget next month, council will carefully consider 2020 proposals and long-term financial plans, ensuring alignment with the priorities defined in our four-year Strategic Plan.”
The press release included budget highlights that provide examples of this alignment.
Economic Prosperity and Innovation
Foster innovation through continued implementation of the Digital Strategy, including addressing local broadband challenges, modernizing the county's internal IT infrastructure and pursuing community-based digital-literacy opportunities.
Engage in innovative projects with community partners to promote strategic placement of the county's many cultural and natural assets to stimulate economic development and tourism grownt.
Sustainable Growth
Break ground for the new combined Golden Plough Lodge and Northumberland County Archives and Museum facility.
Complete construction of the Trent Hills Emergency Services Base in collaboration with that municipality.
Continue to invest in resurfacing and renewal of roads and bridges, including surface treatment of more than 120 km. of municipal and county roadways, as well as the rehabilitation and reconstruction of more than 10 km. of county roadway.
Finalize council review a county-wide Development Charges Background Study.
Thriving and Inclusive Communities
Continue county-wide implementation of the Affordable Housing Strategy, including completion of a detailed design for the Elgin Park redevelopment project.
Develop a Social Housing Master Plan to maximize management of existing stock, including identifying prospects for renewal and intensification, as well as exploring expansion opportunities.
Develop Community Well-bring and Safety plans (in collaboration with community partners) as mandated by the province to address local priorities related to crime and complex social issues.
Leadership in Change
Continue focus on innovation and shared-services models that improve service delivery, reduce administration and result in savings for tax payers.
Ensure continuous improvement of corporate processes by enhancing cybersecurity practices, completing Phase Two of the Human Resources Information System implementation, and putting in place a Lean Governance model and action plan for the organization.
Following further review, county council will vote on this budget at their Jan. 29 meeting. Meanwhile, draft budget materials, including overall highlights as well as individual departmental breakdowns, visit Northumberland.ca/Budget2020.
