For Immediate Release - January 28, 2021
At today’s Council meeting, Wellington County Council adopted its 2021 budget with a 1.2% increase to the County portion of property taxes.
“County Council has passed a responsible budget under extraordinarily challenging circumstances,”
said Warden Kelly Linton.
“The 2021 budget addresses additional services, needs and supports within the community and our local economy as a direct result of the ongoing global pandemic. With a modest 1.2% tax increase, this budget balances the unique financial challenges faced by our residents and businesses with our need to continue to fund the delivery of essential services.”
Highlights of the 2021 Budget include:
• Rural Broadband Investment to complete the gigabyte fibre optic buildout, a municipal contribution of $4.0 million over five years through the SWIFT 2.0 Implementation
• Full-year of the curbside collection enhancements for County residents, including weekly recycling and organics, bi-weekly garbage, and monthly Leaf and Yard Waste collection from April through November
• Investment in roads capital infrastructure and public works facilities over the next ten years, including $33.7 million for upgrades to fund the replacement of the Arthur Public Works Facility (joint project with the Township of Wellington North), as well as the Erin, Brucedale, Harriston and Aberfoyle public works facilities throughout the forecast
• Planning for the opening of Phase II at the Riverstown Landfill
• Funding to begin the planning for and initiate property acquisition for a new Erin Library Branch
• Additional resources at the Wellington Terrace Long-Term Care Home to provide improved resident care during the COVID-19 pandemic
• The COVID-19 Business Recovery Fund, which will provide one-time funding to assist local businesses in the economic recovery
“The County invests over $230 million dollars annually providing important services and programmes to its residents,”
said Councillor Chris White, Chair of the County’s Administration, Finance and Human Resources Committee.
“During these difficult times we will continue to maintain these services and work to help our residents come through the pandemic.”
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