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Public Works manages Hamilton’s big-dollar budget items

Bayobserver.ca
Jan. 28, 2021

In presenting his $389 Million operating budget Wednesday, Public Works General Manager, Dan McKinnon, outlined how the department contributed to the City’s COVID-19 response efforts, and provided key highlights on the delivery of the frontline services that bring Hamilton back to life. The presentation included a summary of 2020 accomplishments, measures of success, and a look ahead at major initiatives in 2021.

The preliminary 2021 operating budget request showed an increase of 3.1 per cent or $8 million.

Hamilton’s largest department

Public Works is by far the city’s biggest department in terms of total staff, capital and operating budgets. The division has more than 2,000 staff, and manages capital projects and operating activities valued at $1.3 Billion per. The department is able to recover approximately $670 Million of that through water bills and other rates.

COVID response

Public Works supported the organization’s COVID-19 emergency response efforts in several ways, including:

Most Public Works staff had to work through the pandemic so there was enhanced emphasis on PPE and COVID safety measures.

2021 plans

Highlights of major initiatives in Public Works in 2021, pending Council approval, will include:

Quick facts about Public Works in 2020:

Council is expected to consider approval for the final operating budget in March.