Meaford residents are being encouraged to provide feedback as the municipality begins to prepare the 2021 budget.
Council provided direction to Meaford staff at its Sept. 14 meeting to prepare a draft budget that includes no enhancements to services or staff unless required to mitigate the impacts of COVID-19.
A background report on the 2021 Meaford budget framework prepared by the municipality’s Director of Corporate Services and Treasurer Darcy Chapman explains the 2021-2024 estimated Operating Budget projections indicate a potential increase of 3.71% in the operating budget and a total 8.07% increase due to continual capital project pressures.
“Given this, any initial target under 8% may very well be unattainable,” Chapman’s report explains.
The direction given by council to staff in preparing a draft budget includes dedicated 1% tax levy increases for roads and bridge capital funding, and a 0.5% increase for facility capital funding.
An online survey has been launched for residents to provide budget feedback that will remain open until Oct. 16.
A Meaford budget engagement session has been scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Oct. 28 at the Woodford Community Centre.