The Nation, ONTARIO – The Nation Municipality’s Municipal Council approved the 2025 budget during a special meeting on Monday, December 16, 2024. Over the past several months, Council and staff have worked diligently to create a budget that addresses financial challenges while reflecting the needs of our residents. Input from the community was gathered during the month of September, including a public session where residents shared their priorities and ideas.
Mayor Francis Brière acknowledged the effort and collaboration involved in crafting the budget, stating:
“Creating this budget required careful consideration and collaboration. Our goal was to address the financial challenges posed by inflation and rising costs, while continuing to deliver essential services and secure the long-term stability of our community. I want to thank both Council and staff for their dedication, as well as the residents who shared their valuable input during the public consultation process.”
This year’s budget focuses on building a strong foundation for the future, ensuring long-term financial stability while maintaining the services our community relies on.
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR YOUR TAXES?
The 2025 budget includes a monthly property tax increase of $18.52 for a residential property assessed by the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) at $300,000. This increase supports increased OPP Policing fees, current services, upgrading existing infrastructure and contributing to reserves for future need.
As part of the budget, the dedicated fire department charge increased from $85 to $87.50 per property to support the funding of firefighting equipment and vehicles, while the environmental charge remains unchanged at $180 per residential property.
It’s important to remember that municipal taxes account for only a portion of your total tax bill. The remaining portion goes toward:
WHAT’S DRIVING THE 2025 BUDGET?
Over the past eight years, inflation (as measured by the Consumer Price Index) has increased by approximately 24%, and the cost of construction projects (as measured by the Building Construction Price Index) has risen by more than 50%. However, during the 8-year period, The Nation only increased taxes by a combined total of 12%. As a result, we have fallen behind in keeping up with rising costs.
This shortfall has left The Nation in a challenging financial position. Our reserves are low, and our borrowing capacity is very limited, making it difficult to fund major projects or prepare for unexpected expenses. These realities have made it essential to adopt a responsible budget that addresses immediate needs while planning for a sustainable future, all while aligning with our Asset Management Policy.
The final budget document will be published on the municipality’s website in January 2025.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
For media inquiries or further information, please contact us by email at:
admin@nationmun.ca.