News Release: Council Passes 2021 Budget

Date: Dec 17, 2020

For Immediate Release,
December 17, 2020

Council of the Town of Erin unanimously approved the 2021 Budget and recognize the 2022 to 2024 budget forecasts, at a Special Council Meeting on Tuesday, December 15th, 2020. Council approved the $12.3m Operating Budget and $25.7m in the 2021 Capital Budget. The approval of the 2021 Budget results in a tax increase of one per cent (1%) or approximately $18.00 for a $600,000 residential assessment. 

This budget was developed with a commitment to ensuring the Town can continue to province service excellence while minimizing the impact of tax increases on residents and businesses. The 2021 Budget and 2022 to 2024 forecasts includes priorities that support the Town's Strategic Plan; Parks, Recreation and Culture Master Plan; Economic Development Plan; as well as directives from Council. 

Key highlights identified in the 2021 Budget:

• A reduction of $11.65 to 1,940 properties, currently paying towards the Special Area Charge for streetlights
• $835,000 to replace Culvert 10 (17th Sideroad west of 8th line) - Paid for through the Gas Tax: $751,500 and Development Charges: $83,500
• $360,000 for Fire Light Rescue Vehicles for medical emergency calls - $61,200 to be paid through Development Charges
• $300,000 for the start of Road Surface Treatment Program - paid through Development Charges
• $300,000 for the Tandem Axle Snow Plow
• $60,000 for Storm Water Management Study
• $54,000 for repairs of playgrounds and Ballinafad Community Centre
• $40,000 for the Barbourfield Feasibility Study
• $40,000 for the Community Improvement Program to support local businesses
• $25,000 for replacement for trees that were damaged by the Emerald Ash Boer

The 2021 Budget was developed following an extensive consultation period, including two telephone town hall meetings; a budget survey and through email comments sent to budget@erin.ca.

"Many residents in our community face continued financial hardships and it was important that we prepared a budget that remains affordable while ensuring we are still able to maintain services that meet the community's evolving needs," said Ursula D'Angelo, Director of Finance. "The 2021 Budget continues to address our infrastructure needs, while strategically planning for our future," said Allan Alls, Mayor. "This budget focuses on being fiscally responsible and I believe it shows Council's commitment to respecting the tax dollars, while making sound financial investments to keep Erin a vibrant community for tomorrow," he added. 

To view the full 2021 Budget and 2022 to 2024 forecasts, please click here.