Regional Council approves a 0.2 per cent tax reduction

On Wednesday, December 16, Halton Regional Council approved the Region’s 2010 Budget and Business Plan , delivering a 0.2 per cent tax reduction for Regional programs and services and a combined water and wastewater rate freeze for Halton residents. The budget delivers the second largest capital infrastructure investment program in the Region’s history.

“Since my motion for a 2010 tax freeze in April, Regional Council and staff have worked diligently to ensure the 2010 budget is one that offers residents the financial relief they need while enhancing our community’s core services and service levels,” said Halton Regional Chair Gary Carr. “The 0.2% tax reduction in the 2010 budget will not halt investment in the services and programs you have told us are important to you, including infrastructure, employment and social assistance programs, emergency preparedness, and public health.”

“In two of the last four years, Halton has actually reduced its tax portion for Regional programs and services,” said Chair Carr. “Over the last four years, the combined tax increase for Regional programs and services has been less than half a per cent – one of the lowest among municipalities in Canada.”

In 2010, Halton Region’s capital program represents the second largest infrastructure spend in Halton’s 35-year history, with an investment of $394.7 million. This funding will be used to upgrade, expand and rehabilitate Halton’s infrastructure, including roads ($109.3 million), water and wastewater plants and distribution systems ($252.8 million), and waste management sites ($1.5 million).

“The budget strategies used to achieve a tax reduction for Regional programs and services for Halton taxpayers are consistent with the Region’s strong and prudent financial planning principles, and ensure the long-term sustainability of Regional programs and services for many years to come,” said Jane MacCaskill, Halton Region’s Commissioner of Corporate Services and Regional Treasurer.

New programming delivered by the 2010 budget includes 135 new subsidized child care spaces, a new sexual health clinic in Oakville to open in September 2010, and funding to expand the Region’s Low Flow Toilet Rebate program and Blue Box and GreenCart programs.

For more information about the 2010 budget, dial 311 or 905-825-6000, toll free 1-866-4HALTON (1-866-442-5866) or TTY 905-825-9833 or visit Halton Region’s website.

Support Our Sponsors