The Director Financial Services & Chief Financial Officer presents the 2021 Pre Budget Council Consultation; the official kick-off to the 2021 budget season. This presentation is an opportunity for the Members to provide additional direction into budget development. The Director advises that the budget timelines are delayed due to the ongoing declared emergencies of the COVID-19 Pandemic, Flood Emergency and the various vacancies within the last year in the Financial Services department. The annual budget survey will be available on the Town's website from September 24 through to October 16 for residents to participate and comment.
The pressures and drivers for the 2021 Budget are explained including the continued threat of inland flooding, COVID-19 Pandemic measures and Municipal Property Assessment Corporation re-assessment cycle in 2021 being postponed by one year.
A summary of staff enhancements will be presented during budget presentations offering further details, including how the enhancements will improve operations and service delivery.
Lifecycle and Capital expenditures are expected to increase due to future improvements for the new MultiUse SportsPlex, Storm Drainage Master Plan, and Community Improvement Plan (CIP) streetscape improvements.
Water and wastewater rates are explained as they relate to budget impacts, as well as sanitary rates. The 2015 study will be used to recommend rates for 2021. The Town's rates are relatively low compared to surrounding municipalities. The drivers continue to be the watermain replacement program, Cathotic protection program, and property study and design for Oldcastle Hamlet water tower and booster station to improve water pressure in the south end.