Though Centre Wellington passed its 2016 capital budget on Dec. 14, the next stage of discussions begins in a few weeks as councillors hammer out the operating budget for the coming year.
On Dec. 14, council approved a $9-million capital budget for 2016, which represents a significant portion of the total dollars spent by the township.
It excludes equipment and vehicle replacement items.
Also, for the first time, council approved a three-year capital forecast that will show residents what the township is planning to do in the future.
This gives certain capital projects preliminary approval, allowing priority projects to move ahead with design and tendering, leading to construction in the actual year for which the project is budgeted.
The continuation of the 2% dedicated capital levy initiated in 2015 will provide a means to address bridge infrastructure requirements over the coming years, officials say.
To the average residential property assessed at $318,300, this represents an additional $20 to $25 (on average in taxes) annually over a ten-year period, for a total cost over the ten year period of about $1,150.
2016 Operating Budget
Centre Wellington has booked three days during which intends to deliberate and finalize the township’s 2016 draft operating budget.
These dates are:
– Jan. 26 from 11am to 6pm (delegations at 5pm);
– Jan. 27, 10am to 4pm; and,
– Jan. 28, 9am to 4pm (if needed).
Council will receive submissions from registered delegates at the Jan. 26 meeting.
Persons wishing to make a submission are requested to register with Kerri O’Kane, manager of legislative services/municipal clerk, at 519-846-9691 x243 no later than noon on Jan. 20.
A copy of the draft 2016 draft operating budget will be available on the township’s website by Jan. 19. Currently posted on the website are the 2016 capital budget and the 10-year capital forecast
Paper copies will be available on request, by contacting Mark Bradey, financial manager/deputy treasurer at 519-846-9691 ext. 223 or mbradey@centrewellington.ca.
