2021 Budget Approval

CENTRE WELLINGTON – Yesterday afternoon, Council approved the 2021 budget.  This budget, with a 1.33% increase in taxation represents a balance between meeting the needs of our growing community and the challenges of a global public health pandemic.  In summary, a residential property in Centre Wellington assessed at $381,095 (2021 value) would pay an additional $15 in 2021 as a result of the Township’s budget.

“I appreciate the dedication and hard work of our Township team in developing a budget that recognizes the hardships faced by our businesses and families while still providing the funds necessary to deliver essential services” said Mayor Kelly Linton.  “In the midst of a very challenging year, I am thankful to the Members of Council who supported this budget because it enables us to continue to get things done to help our community rebuild from COVID-19 and achieve our strategic priorities.” 

The 2021 Budget was developed with a commitment to ensuring the Township can continue to meet existing levels of service while minimizing the impact of tax increases on residents and businesses.  This includes a clear focus on improving service delivery, managing growth, and delivering services more effectively and efficiently.  A number of pre-budget meetings were held with Council in preparation for budget deliberations in January.  Residents were engaged through Connect CW, where they were encouraged to learn more about how the Township’s budget works, and the ability to participate in a survey.

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is placing considerable pressure on the Township’s financial position.  Net revenue reductions as a result of the pandemic in 2020, will continue into 2021.  Significant impacts are in Community Services’ programming revenue and investment revenue.  However a significant portion of these impacts have been offset by cost savings across the Township and contributions from the Federal and Provincial governments under the Safe Restart Program. 

2021 Budget Highlights

• A 0% wage increase as per the Employee Memorandum of Agreements with the Township’s Staff Association and two Volunteer Firefighter Associations.
• Two permanent full-time positions approved will be shared positions with neighbouring municipalities.  This allows for resource sharing and a lower cost to each municipality.
• Replacement of Fifth Line culvert (structure 4-WG).
• Repaving of Eighth Line W from Middlebrook Road to WR 18.
• Replacement of the watermain on Hill St. E from Gowrie St. to Cameron St. (Fergus).
• Replacement of the ice pad at the Elora Community Centre.
• Servicing of employment lands on Dickson Drive (Fergus).

In 2021, the Township will continue to focus on emergency preparedness, core initiatives as indicated by Council’s approved Strategic Plan, and continue to support our local businesses. 

Kendra Martin  | Communications Coordinator

Township of Centre Wellington | 1 MacDonald Square, Elora, ON  N0B 1S0
519.846.9691  x220  centrewellington.ca
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