Municipal taxes set to increase in Stratford

Municipal taxes are expected to go up this year in Stratford, according to its recently released 2024-25 draft budget.

During a public presentation on March 14, Coun. Ron Dowling, the chair of the finance and technology committee, said the council made the tough decision due to the increasing difficulty in maintaining the level of service and growth required for the community.

He said the town has been collaborating with other municipalities in P.E.I. to secure additional funding from the province. It had hoped to receive more funding from the province, but since that hasn't happened, the town had to increase taxes.

“As our community continues to grow, our needs change as well," said Dowling during the meeting. "While growth is positive, as it provides us with more opportunities and sets us up for a successful future, we must plan for and be prepared for our anticipated growth.”

The budget is going to see a $0.02 increase to noncommercial/residential buildings, while non-commercial non-resident buildings will see a $0.04 increase, noncommercial apartments will see a $0.08 increase and commercial will see a $0.10 increase.

“Although raising taxes is never an easy decision and requires thorough debate and discussion, the council recognizes the importance of delivering and expanding the town's services and facilities,” he said.

The draft budget also includes further work on the 170-hectare Community Campus land purchased last year. The project includes the ongoing construction of a new high school, sports fields, multi-use courts, trails and a wellness center. A solar project is set to begin, which will assist the future community and wellness centre being constructed to net zero.

In the draft budget, the general government department plans to invest in several areas, including expansion of the transit system, additional RCMP officers and additional support for the local business community.

In 2023, the Town of Stratford's planning, development and heritage department had a busy year with a construction value of $54 million. It issued 191 permits and completed more than 120 inspections. To meet the increasing demands of the department, additional staff will be hired in the coming year. The department will create shortterm rental and food vendor bylaws and conduct the first stage of the official plan and bylaw review in the upcoming budget.

The town is inviting residents to review the draft budget and provide feedback before March 21. The council will vote on the budget during a special meeting on March 28.