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Back to SearchMUSKOKA LAKES – On Wednesday, February 24, 2021 Township Council approved the 2021 Operating and Capital Budget and Forecast.
The 2021 budget has a net levy of $12,584,088, which represents a 2.43% tax levy increase over the prior year. The estimated tax increase to a typical residential property valued at $500,000 is $10.30. The 2021 budget builds upon the changes made in the 2020 Budget which designates 20% of annual expenses towards reserves to support future investments in the Township’s capital infrastructure.
“During these unprecedented times, I am pleased that Council and staff worked together to create an extremely responsible budget that recognizes the short-term economic implications of Covid-19 to ongoing Township operations, as well as the need to grow savings to pay for future infrastructure repairs across the Township,” says Mayor Harding. “Council has also been able to improve service levels with this budget, including increased by-law enforcement and support in our Planning department, not to mention it projects appropriate spending for the next three years versus a single year budget. These enhancements are all a direct result of the Township’s recently updated Strategic Plan which will guide Council and staff for the next four years.”
“While the effects of the public health response to the COVID-19 pandemic present the need for continual adjustments to township operations, operating costs continue to be managed responsibly, and we are improving our ability to contribute to savings for future rehabilitation of our infrastructure,” says Mark Donaldson, Director of Financial Services. “In doing so, we will help to ensure our residents and businesses can continue to thrive and enjoy the wonderful balance of commerce and recreation that exists here in Muskoka Lakes.”
Notable projects slated for 2021 include the completion of a Fire Master Plan and a Recreation, Parks, Trails & Facilities Master Plan, development of a Community Improvement Plan (CIP) for the communities of Port Carling and Bala, and improvements to trails and by-law enforcement.
“I’d like to thank Council and our staff for their dedication to putting our community first and ensuring we have a budget that keeps us moving forward,” stated Mayor Harding.
Please visit www.muskokalakes.ca to view a copy of the 2021 budget.
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For more information, please contact:
Mark Donaldson
Director of Financial Services
mdonaldson@muskokalakes.ca
(705) 765-3156
www.muskokalakes.ca
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Media Release - Township Approves 2021 Budget
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