Putting the community first: enhancing services, preparing for the future
By: Surjit Singh Flora
BRAMPTON, “Zero” is the magic number, for the second year in a row, City of Brampton councilors has been able to deliver a zero per cent increase its city property taxes for the 2020 budget, accomplished through a net expenditure increase of $ 47 million at a Special Council Meeting on Feb 26 and its largest-ever contribution to reserves in the City’s history.”
The Budget includes Key investment through levies in infrastructure and transit to continue meeting the needs of a growing city, Brampton mayor Patrick Brown said Wednesday as budget talks concluded. The total increase to the tax bills of Brampton residents will only increase a 1.3 per cent property tax levy by Peel Region, as passed last month.
Stormwater charges, assessment growth, and revenue growth will be used to power the $47 million increase in expenditures, while a future $110 million will be contributed to the City’s reserves to strengthen its financial position.
In total, the 2020 budget runs at approximately $977 million, which includes a $22 million capital budget that provides for several major projects, including $9.8 million towards the improvement of local sports fields, trails, and playgrounds over the next three years. $52 million for Bus purchases, including electric variants: $650,000 over the next three years to boost the city photo radar presence in community safety zones and $41 million in upgrades to transportation and Roads.
This Budget ensures that City programs and service levels are maintained or increased; levies are continued to keep the City infrastructure at sustainable levels; and that investments continue to build opportunities for economic growth and job creation.
Consultations were held with residents, including four days of in-person, with key stakeholders and residents as well as a phone-in from town hall which attracted more than 7,500 listeners said Paul Vicente, Regional Councillor, Wards 1&5; Vice-Chair, Budget Committee Our Council is proud of the result that ensures the City is maximizing value for our taxpayers now and into the future.” he added
