At its Regular meeting last evening, Town of Fort Erie Council approved the 2013 Operating and Capital Budgets. The Operating Budget of $20.7 million results in a 4.11 percent property tax increase on the Town’s portion of the tax bill.

“This budget assures that the Town continues to focus on core services while at the same time building for the future”, stated Mayor Martin. Council has approved $400,000 to be placed in the capital reserves for future infrastructure projects.

The Capital Budget of $9 million includes key projects for 2013 such as the Optimist Park Soccer Field; Facility improvements including roof and HVAC systems; the replacement of a number of Fleet vehicles; Catherine Street and High Street service improvements and a cost sharing agreement with the Region to replace the Central Avenue Bridge.

Corporate Services Chair, Councillor John Hill, further noted “Council is aware of these challenging economic times and the Town continues to take a responsible and affordable approach to budgeting”.

In 2013, municipal taxes will maintain and deliver core services, including: Roads, Winter Control and Sidewalks; Fire and Emergency Services; Facilities; Parks, Cemeteries and Trails; Public Library Services; Economic Development; Building, Planning and Development Services; By-law Enforcement; Council support and Administration, including Information Technology and Human Resources; Heritage and Culture; and Transit services. Water and Wastewater core services are delivered through the Water and Wastewater budget, which is required to be self-sufficient and separate from property taxation.

What this means for the median Town of Fort Erie household (assessed at $175,360):

• Increase to the Town portion translates to a 4.11% increase (for Town services only)
• Total estimated “all-in” tax increase including the Region and Education portion is 1.12%
• Monthly impact on the total property tax bill for a median household is $2.37/month and $28.42/year