Port Hope taxpayers see small tax increase
28-11-2024 1:16 p.m.
Port Hope
While there is no 2025 tax levy increase for capital projects in the Municipality of Port Hope, there is an estimated $178 increase for a typical homeowner based on current property assessments
A full-day budget session on Nov. 19 has resulted in a $56-million budget in 2025 for the Municipality of Port Hope, of which $29.6-million will come from the new year's tax levy.
The announcement from the municipality estimates this at a $178 increase for a typical homeowner based on current property assessment.
Mayor Olena Hankivsky said council engaged in robust discussions about affordability “and strived to ensure a lean budget that delivers the services and infrastructure improvements our community relies on, while managing costs in a responsible way.”
A significant aspect of the budget is funding the final phase of the Walton Street reconstruction project, a $4-million investment that will come from the Hydro Reserve – ensuring no 2025 tax levy increase for capital projects.
The announcement noted a significant public-consultation component, with meetings and presentations throughout the past two months that covered such topics as user fees, community grants, reserve allocations and departmental budgets. As well, their budget survey saw unprecedented community participation.
Several critical projects were prioritized to enhance infrastructure, public safety and economic growth – areas identified as priorities for participants in the 2025 budget survey. Key initiatives include:
Rural road upgrades – Maintenance and improvement to 17.5 km. of rural roads
Equipment purchases – Including two new snowplows, a wilderness fire protection truck and an updated audio-visual system for council chambers
Facility maintenance at the Jack Burger Sports Complex – Including significant updates to HVAC and dehumidification
New pump park – Funded by a grant
Economic development – Funding to implement the economic development plan and attract new businesses
Waterfront and Riverwalk Master Plan – Resources allocated for shoreline and sediment studies in support of this long-term initiative
Fire station #3 construction planning – Funding for the continuation of design work in preparation for the station's future replacement
Community support – In the form of community grants, donations and foundational-support initiatives to 18 local organizations
Floodplain mapping – Investments in updated mapping to improve planning and risk management
Personnel – Staff resources to maintain services
Mayor Hankivsky said that passing the budget this early is a fiscally responsible move that sets the stage for immediate action.
“This proactive step allows us to begin procuring the materials, equipment and resources needed to deliver the projects and services outlined in the budget,” she stated.
“It means that, come January, we can roll up our sleeves and get right to work – whether it's starting construction on vital infrastructure, supporting local businesses through economic-development initiatives or enhancing public safety with new equipment for our Fire Department. This early approval allows us to begin work promptly and take full advantage of the opportunities ahead for our community.”
Residents are encouraged to review budget documents and recordings available on the municipality's website. Updates on the implementation of budget initiatives will be shared through the municipality's communication channels, including the website and social media.
