Town Council votes in favour of draft 2022 municipal budget

St. Marys Town Council has thrown its support behind the draft 2022 municipal budget. The budget proposes a modest overall increase of 1.06% -- or approximately $50 for a typical residential property. Of that amount, 0.88% (or $29) will be reflected on residents’ annual property tax bills; the remainder will be added to residents’ water and wastewater bills.

Staff were intentionally conservative when planning this year’s budget, given the ongoing financial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Financial efficiencies that were found during the pandemic also helped to keep the increase at a manageable level.

Public input played a significant role in determining how funds should be allocated in 2022. Last year, residents were invited to share their thoughts on the budget through the Town’s Speak Up St. Marys platform. Participants had a chance to “build their own budget” and vote on financial priorities.

Attainable housing and infrastructure emerged as the community’s top concerns through that process. In response, staff have allocated $50,000 to housing and $6,600,000 to capital projects, like the reconstruction of Wellington Street.

The budget includes funding for several other projects that will further the Town’s strategic goals. Highlights include:

A tourism signage initiative
The development of a plan to re-envision Milt Dunnell Field (The Flats)
An “Access to Recreation” grant program
Improvements to the local trail system
More funding for tree planting
The installation of banners in the downtown to support the LGBTQ2+ community

“This is a responsible budget that balances the need to manage pandemic costs with Council’s desire to improve quality of life for residents and enhance visitor experiences,” said Mayor Al Strathdee. “I’m pleased with the work that staff has done and thank the public for their input.”

Staff will now draft a by-law to pass the budget, which Council will consider at a meeting on February 8, 2022. A copy of the draft budget is available at townofstmarys.com/budget. Questions or comments about the budget can be directed to André Morin at 519-284-2340, ext. 217 or amorin@town.stmarys.on.ca

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For media inquiries:
Brett O’Reilly, Corporate Communications Manager
519-284-2340, ext. 432 | boreilly@town.stmarys.on.ca