Brockton councillors tried to balance debt reduction, investment in the future, and high inflation as they hammered out the 2023 budget.
But after three special meetings, council approved a budget this week which will add almost $189 dollars to the average household’s tax bill. The total levy for the municipality in 2023 is $11,483,398.
Spending plans includes $214,000 from the Infrastructure Reserve Fund for reconstructing the Walkerton Tennis Courts located at Centennial Park, and putting $200,000 in a reserve fund dedicated to planning for a new recreational facility. The municipality begin a feasibility study on designs for a new recreation complex and potential improvements to the existing arena facility. That will also ensure they have a fiscal plan for the project, and will be ready to apply for grants.
Other plans include spending $330,000 to replace Bridge 0018 Concession 6 Greenock, and $150,000 to convert the streetlights along Jackson and Durham Streets to LED with some pole replacements. The Roads Reserve fund will cover the $450,000 needed to replace a 23-year old Street Sweeper. The municipality also plans to get started on the Yonge Street Reconstruction and Trunk Watermain Replacement this year. Council was pleasantly surprised to receive an increase of $150,442 for the Court Security and Prisoner Transportation Grant.
“Brockton faced a challenge coming into the 2023 budget deliberations because of the frozen property assessments, high interest rates, and a high rate of inflation. The Municipality continues to provide quality service with a responsible tax rate increase and must balance the needs of our community related to services and infrastructure renewal in a challenging economy. As Brockton continues to grow, Council is committed to prioritizing our investments in infrastructure and recreation which are crucial to our community. The 2023 budget process remained focused on completing essential projects and planning for the future so that the Municipality can grow in an effective and fiscally responsible manner,” said Chief Administrative Officer Sonya Watson.
Read original story from Midwestern Ontario News – BlackburnNews.com