Special Council meeting (2024 budget adoption), December 14, 2023
Attendance
Mayor Danielle Okafor-Price chaired the session. Present were Councillors Marcus Lindqvist (Ward 1), Priya Raman (Ward 2), Tom Beaudry (Ward 3), Grace Whitlock (Ward 4), Arjun Sidhu (Ward 5), and Helen Marchetti (Ward 6). City Manager Robert Eng and City Clerk Nadia Kowalczyk attended to support the meeting. The session was livestreamed for public viewing. You can also watch a recording later on our website.
Delegations
A resident from the Northgate neighbourhood took the podium to share feedback on community programming. They highlighted the need for expanded winter activities for youth and seniors, and asked that snow removal priority be given to walking trails near Ambrel Lake Park. The Mayor thanked the resident for speaking up and confirmed that the request would be added to the finance team's review list before the final budget vote.
Reports and decisions
Council examined the detailed 2024 operating budget reports. Under the Ontario Municipal Act, 2001, cities must balance their budgets and set tax rates before the end of the year. After reviewing the numbers, members approved the funding allocations for Roads & Winter Maintenance, ensuring that main streets and residential lanes are cleared according to city standards. They also approved the budget for Wrenford Transit, which includes the planned route adjustments for the spring season and continued support for Wrenford Access specialized transit.
Members discussed the proposed property tax rates for residential and commercial properties. Council agreed to keep the overall levy increase within the provincial guideline to help property owners manage rising costs. The Mayor reminded everyone that interim tax bills are due in February and April, and that pre-authorized monthly payment plans are available through Service Wrenford.
Council directed the City Manager to finalize the 2024 Tax Levy By-law so it can be put to a vote at the next regular meeting on December 21. Staff will also present a summary of the capital works program, highlighting upcoming projects like the Ambrel Lake Park playground refresh and the downtown streetscape improvements.
By-laws
No by-laws were passed during this meeting.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 7:45 p.m. You can view the full agenda and reports on our budget page or check the upcoming meeting schedule.