Woodstock City Council Approves 2021 Budget

Friday, 19 March 2021 05:24

Woodstock's 2021 budget includes $24.4 million in capital projects and a tax levy for City purposes of about $62 million.

WOODSTOCK - The City of Woodstock Council has approved the 2021 Revenue Budget Fund.

The budget includes $24.4 million in capital projects for this year and a tax levy for City purposes of about $62 million. This would mean a tax rate increase for property owners of 2.74%. The budget includes the continuation of essential programs and services that can run safely in accordance with Provincial Regulations.

The budget includes a new transit route to bring service to the rapidly growing area north of the City.

It also will include two more full time time and one more part time staff member to manage the workload of the growing city.

Mayor Trevor Birtch says this has not been a normal year and this is not a normal budget.

“This is not a typical budget. Some recreation, sport and culture programs and City run events are either reduced or not included in the budget this year due to the ongoing pandemic."

The approved 2021 budget will result in an increase of $67.04 or 2.74% for the average house assessment, compared with 2020.

Birtch says they did have to rely on some help from both levels of Government this year because of the pandemic.

“We thank our Provincial and Federal partners for their assistance in managing the financial difficulties during this pandemic. Our immediate priority is the safety of everyone in the Friendly City. I can assure our community that we have steadfast leadership that will continue to guide us through these unprecedented times. There is no simple roadmap for this as our realities continue to shift. The dedication of our employees demonstrates our community’s resilience. We recognize and thank our staff who continue to provide essential municipal services. The road ahead is still long and I am counting on everyone in the City of Woodstock to remain strong, safe, compassionate and remember we are all in this together."