Advancing Georgian Bluffs with the 2024 Draft Budget

Georgian Bluffs Council has reviewed the 2024 Draft Budget, with a continued commitment to advancing the Township as an affordable, connected community with a focus on infrastructure.

This year’s budget process was enhanced to promote collaboration between Council, staff, and the community in setting budget priorities and improving transparency and engagement. A budget survey was released last August, followed by a special Council session in early December to review proposed projects and establish Council’s priorities.

Significant investments in the 2024 Draft Budget include:

• Continued work on the Pottawatomi Water System.
• Multi-year replacement programs for Emery Bridge and Sideroad 3 Bridge.
• Continuation of the road surface treatment program.
• Initiation of the Corporate Climate Action Plan.
• Upgrades to technology including laptop replacement, budget software, website improvements, and more.
• Investment in community events.
• Added staff resources to support major infrastructure projects.

As per Council’s direction, the carefully considered 2024 Draft Budget has resulted in a 9.19% increase for the residential municipal tax rate over 2023. This equates to an increase of $14 per month for the average residential taxpayer, ensuring that the total tax-supported budget of $12.9 million is effectively funded to invest in community services and infrastructure improvements.

The Public Input Session scheduled for February 7, 2024, is an integral part of the budget process, ensuring that everyone’s voices are reflected in the final budget. Following the session, and the County of Grey’s adoption of its 2024 Budget and Tax Policy, staff will present the 2024 Sums Required By-law and Tax Rates By-Law for Council approval.

For more information on the 2024 Draft Budget and budget process, visit www.engagegb.ca/2024-budget.