An approximate 3.9 per cent guideline increase in residents’ regional property tax bill has been approved by Durham Regional Council on December 20.
The approved guideline translates to an annual increase of some $231 for an average assessment value of residential property in Durham, said a region statement.
The region accounts for 52 per cent of Durham residents’ total property tax bill on average. This 3.9 per cent increase is in addition to the local property tax that residents pay to the municipality they live in. So far, Oshawa has announced a 3.89 per cent rise in its own 2024 property tax, Whitby a 1.8 per cent rise and Clarington a 1.5 per cent increase.
The 2024 budget will be reviewed by the region’s Finance and Administration Committee on March 19, and finally by Regional Council on March 27.
The regional property tax increase was part of the approved 2024 Property Tax Supported Business Plans and Budget Guideline.
Police budget up 2.5%
The guideline calls for a 2.5 per cent increase for the Durham Regional Police Services Board and a 5 per cent increase for all other regional programs and services including a minimum of 0.5 per cent dedicated to fund anticipated property tax impacts resulting from Ontario Bill 23, More Homes Built Faster Act, 2022, Ontario Bill 134, Affordable Homes and Goods Jobs Act, 2023 and related provincial legislation.
The guideline is an important part of the annual process that provides an overall property tax cap for the 2024 Business Plans and Budget, providing guidance to finalize budget submissions to be considered by Regional Council in March 2024, said the statement.
Residents are invited to join the Budget Town Hall on January 11 at 6:30 pm. They can share ideas and priorities for the upcoming budget, register for the Town Hall, watch the event live and subscribe for updates at yourvoice.durham.ca/DurhamBudget.
“The approved 2024 Business Plans and Budget guideline shines a light on the challenges that not only Durham Region faces, but many municipalities in Ontario. While the guideline is proof of the region’s commitment to deliver and maintain safe, reliable and financially sustainable critical front-line services for our residents, it also reinforces the need to review the funding model between the provincial, federal and municipal governments, to ensure more balanced responsibilities,” said John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer.
“We are proud to continue to invest in our community, and the regional services that drive them, and we will continue to work to ensure that Durham Region is one of the best places to call home, Region of Durham.”
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