News Release: Council Passes 2020 Budget

Date: Dec 17, 2019

For Immediate Release, December 17, 2019

At the December 17th Special Council Meeting, Council of the Town of Erin passed the 2020 Budget and recognized the 2021 to 2023 Forecasts. Following an extensive consultation period, including five public meetings; a budget survey; and the Town’s first-ever Telephone Town Hall, Council approved the $12.9m Operating Budget and $4.1m in the 2020 Capital Budget. The approval of the 2020 Budget results in a tax increase of two percent (2%) or $29.87 for a home assessed at $500k.

This year, the Town of Erin adopted the Priority Based Budgeting approach, which allows the Town to allocate budget dollars, that are matched with community priorities. The 2020 Budget includes priorities identified by the community through the newly adopted Strategic Plan; Parks, Recreation and Culture Master Plan; Economic Development Plan; and 2020 Budget.

Key highlights identified in the 2020 Budget:

• A reduction of $31 to 1,940 properties, currently paying the Special Area Charge for streetlights;
• Renovations at the Erin Community Centre and (dependent on receiving a government grant) emergency response equipment;
• Renovations at the Hillsburgh Community Centre;
• Structure Rehabilitation and Replacement of Culvert 2059 at Station Street and Sideroad 24;
• Replacement of Fire Tanker 57;
• Energy and Water Conservation projects in all municipal facilities;
• New equipment at Town Parks and Parkettes;
• Grant application and financing agreements for wastewater servicing system;
• Storm water management study and mitigation strategy;
• Continuation of funding for businesses applying for grants under the Community Improvement Plan; and
• Resources to help preparare for growth such as; a Senior Planner, Official Plan Amendments, Architectural Design Guidelines and Standards.

“The 2020 Budget allows us to continue to invest in the community through enhancements to the recreation facilities, Town infrastructure and the roads networks, while continuing to find cost-saving efficiencies and providing service excellence,” said Mayor Alls. “Council and staff are effectively planning for the future of Erin, which is demonstrative through this budget,” he added.

Full Budget Details