Residents in Leamington will pay a little more in property taxes this year.
Municipal councillors approved an increase of 1.8 per cent for this year's budget after deliberations last week.
The increase, on an average home assessment of $175,000, will add another $37.76 to the municipal portion of the tax bill.
"Making strategic investments for future growth and planning, while maintaining financial responsibility was a significant focus," said Mayor Hilda MacDonald. "Leamington is open for business and investment."
Significant capital projects this year include the renovations at the Leamington Arts Centre, greater investment in parks including Seacliffe Park and the Kinsmen Baseball Diamonds, and improvements at the Pollution Control Centre.
The budget also includes money to continue sewer separation and road work on Henry, Lorne, Gladstone, William, and Melrose Avenues. The budget also included road reconstruction on John Street.
"You will find this year's budget supports Council's strategic values -- focused on customer service, fiscal prudence, and continuous improvements while ensuring an improved quality of life for our residents," continued MacDonald.
Chief Administrative Officer Peter Neufeld echoed her comments, "This budget aligns and supports the priority actions outlined in our Strategic Plan, which is to drive economic development through investment in infrastructure, creating a future-ready community."
Essex County Council approved its 2020 budget in December with a 0.9 per cent increase. The boost works out to another $8.72 for the average home assessed at $200,000.
