East Gwillimbury council has approved its 2023 budget with a tax increase of 5.55 per cent, which will see an additional $107 added to the average homeowner's tax bill.
The breakdown of the tax increase for the town's business plan and budget of $29,477,361, approved Feb. 23, includes a 2.8 per cent levy to maintain existing programs and services, and a 2.75 per cent increase for additional staffing and dedicated services, including future operating costs of the Health and Active Living Plaza now under construction, maintenance of infrastructure, and two new full-time firefighters in 2023.
“While East Gwillimbury continues to have the lowest relative taxes in York Region, we also understand that with the rising cost of living, any tax rate increase is difficult for residents. Council worked diligently with staff to focus the budget in the right places to deliver a fiscally responsible budget for our residents and community," said Mayor Virginia Hackson in a news release.
"This year, council is investing in community safety with the addition of two full-time firefighters, and ensuring our municipal infrastructure can support the needs of our community. While it is difficult to pass an increase, we have an obligation to ensure we are providing the appropriate level of service to our community.”
The town offers various programs and exemptions for seniors and low-income households to help offset the impact of the increase. For more information about these programs, click here. For more information about the business plan and budget, click here.
