Springwater announces 2% tax increase for 2014

Springwater Council news release

Springwater Council approved the 2014 Budget with a fiscally responsible 2.02% net tax increase.

With a more than 3% budget increase from OPP and Conservation alone, plus reduced grants from the Ontario Municipal Partnership Fund, achieving internal efficiencies and savings were critical elements in delivering this fiscally responsible budget.

Through creative solutions, the net tax levy was reduced to 2.02%; or $26.56 over 2013 rates on an average Springwater property tax bill. When blended with the County`s and education taxation, taxpayers will see a 1.52% or $49.59 increase in their total 2014 tax bill over 2013.

 For every tax dollar:

 • $0.41 is retained by the Township,

 • $0.35 goes to the County of Simcoe, and

 • $0.24 goes to Education.

The 2014 Budget includes gross expenditures of $25.9 million of which $9.2 million is directed towards Capital Projects, such as roads and bridges.

 This year’s budget will see an increased focus on roads and bridges projects; to ensure infrastructure is maintained and repaired in a timely manner.

 “Recently a local bridge and a culvert failed requiring costly repairs and road closures and created an inconvenience for our residents,” said Mayor Linda Collins. “By ensuring that we plan for the future and consistently maintain our infrastructure, we can provide safe, sustainable roads, bridges and culverts.”

 In addition to a focus on infrastructure, 2014 Capital budget highlights include:

 • Replacement of Fire Station 2                            $1,400,000.00

 • Replace Public Works Tandem Truck                  $240,000.00

 • Purchase Fire Pumper Truck                               $385,000.00

 • Midhurst Skateboard Park                                   $150,000.00

 • Elmvale Arena Upgrades and Repairs                $145,000.00

 The 2014 Operating Budget is broken down into the following categories:

 

 “After numerous meetings and deliberations, we have arrived at a fiscally responsible budget,” stated Mayor Collins. “Not only were we successful in keeping the increase to approximately 2%, but by thinking creatively, staff were able to find efficiencies while maintaining the service levels our residents have come to expect.”