Smiths Falls council is staring at an 8.3% tax rate increase with various budget pressures forcing future tough decisions.
An additional $1.495 million is off the books in a decrease of provincial support and investment revenues, as well as an increase in debt payments, insurance and shared services.
Overall, there’s a 19% decrease in total corporate revenue projections.
There’s also a proposed 12% increase in by-law services with the addition of two new officers, and a 12% proposed hike to Administration, Library and Community Programs, which is tied mostly to salary increases.
Councillor Jay Brennan says the final increase must be lower than 2025.
Councillor Stephen Robinson took particular issues with a proposed 6% overall increase to the economic development budget.
That increase would see the entire department eclipse $1 million with a proposed 12% increase to tourism’s pockets.
Treasurer Paul Dowber estimates an 8.3% tax rate increase would result in between $350-$400 in additional taxes for the median household.
Story by Grant Deme