Georgina approves 1.45% tax hike for 2021

Financial impact of COVID-19 pandemic will be felt for the 'foreseeable future': Georgina treasurer

Yorkregion.com
Dec. 17
Amanda Persico

The financial impact of COVID-19 will be seen and felt long after 2020 is over. And the town’s 2021 budget recognizes the toll the current pandemic has taken on residents.

Georgina council -- along with other York Region municipalities -- approved a minimal tax hike for 2021.

The town approved a 1.45-per-cent tax increase, which includes a 0.5-per-cent increase that will be dedicated to the town’s capital reserve fund.

That amounts to an additional $30 a year for the average, single-family, non-waterfront home with an assessed value of about $403,000. For waterfront properties, it’s an additional $54 a year based on the average, single-family waterfront home assessed at about $722,000.

“Navigating the many changes the COVID-19 pandemic brought has been challenging. We had to adjust course and make difficult choices in terms of its financial situation,” said Mayor Margaret Quirk in a statement.

“The 2021 budget reflects our efforts to ensure a sustained economic recovery and the town will have the tools in place to address future financial pressures.”

Council also approved the 2021 water and wastewater budget, with an increase of about 1.5 per cent. That amounts to about $14 throughout out the year or about $3.50 quarterly, based on consumption in an average single-family home.

“The financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic will be felt by municipalities for the foreseeable future,” said Rob Wheater, the town’s corporate services director and treasurer.

“The 2021 budget was developed with a commitment to ensuring the town can continue to provide a high level of service to residents while working together towards a strong economic recovery.”

For more information, visit georgina.ca/budget