Proposed 2024 Budget Directions, Timeline and Consultation Process

Council was asked to

1. Committee Recommendations That Council approve the following: The approach and timetable for consultation and consideration of the 2024 budget as outlined in the report. The following directions for developing the draft 2024 budget: That the municipal tax increase be set at no more than 2.5 per cent overall inclusive of the following: The Citywide tax levy, which includes funding for Library and Public Heath be increased by no more than 2.5 per cent for 2024, and that Council request that the Public Library Board and Board of Health develop their draft budgets based on the pro rata share of this tax increase; The Police Services levy be increased by no more than 2.5 per cent and that Council request that the Police Services Board develop their draft budget based on this tax increase; That the Transit levy be increased by no more than 2.5 per cent and that Council request that the Transit Commission develop their draft budget based on this tax increase. That the assessment growth taxation revenues generated from new properties be estimated at 1.5 per cent of the current taxation for 2024 and that Council request that the Public Library Board, Board of Health, Police Services Board, and Transit Commission develop their budgets within this allocation. That City user fees and charges increase in accordance with the direction outlined in the Fiscal Framework or the Long Range Financial Plans. That the Garbage Fee be increased in accordance with the approved Solid Waste Residential Collections Contracts report and to address the capital investments required for this service per the four-year capital spending plan. That the draft 2024 Capital Budget be developed in accordance with the direction outlined in the 2019 Development Charge (DC) Background Study, Long Range Financial Plans and Fiscal Framework. That the draft 2024 Rate-Supported Budget be developed in accordance with the approved 2017 Long Range Financial Plan V - Water, Wastewater and Stormwater. That the 2024 Recreation, Culture and Facility Services User Fees be approved in order to allow registrations and rentals booked in 2023 for 2024 to use 2024 rates, as described in this report.