DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard
SCUGOG: The township’s proposed 2025 operating budget, presented to Scugog councillors on Monday, January 6th, outlines a $1.2 million increase to maintain and enhance municipal services. The draft budget, detailed by Director of Finance/Treasurer Laura Barta and Manager of Finance/Deputy Treasurer Sarah Durward, highlights the township’s ongoing commitment to infrastructure investment and service delivery amidst external financial pressures.
“This budget reflects the township’s responsibility to maintain our infrastructure, respond to growth, and adapt to rising costs due to inflation and other external factors,” said Ms. Barta. “Nearly two-thirds of the increase is allocated to caring for township-owned assets, including roads, vehicles, and facilities.”
The 2025 draft operating budget totals $20.8 million, a $1.5 million increase from 2024. Public Works and Infrastructure Services remains the largest expenditure, accounting for 49 cents of every tax dollar. The department’s budget is set to rise by $1.05 million to $10.98 million, largely driven by road maintenance and infrastructure upgrades.
“This investment ensures our roads and facilities remain safe and functional for our residents,” said Ms. Durward. “It’s a proactive approach to managing the township’s $546 million in road assets.”
For the average Scugog household with a property assessed at $438,000, the monthly increase in the township’s portion of the tax bill is projected to be $12.43. This brings the total monthly cost for municipal services to $158.79.
“While any increase can be challenging, it’s important to note that Scugog’s portion of the overall property tax bill is just three percent,” Ms. Barta explained. “This budget prioritizes value for every tax dollar, ensuring that essential services like winter maintenance, parks, and emergency response are adequately funded.”
The budget also addresses external pressures, including $360,700 in rising benefit costs, $175,700 in inflationary increases for contracted services, and $58,000 in mandatory professional fees.
The township’s proposed capital budget allocates $8.7 million for 53 projects, with $6.1 million deferred to future years. Key areas of investment include roads, vehicles, and facilities, with significant transfers to reserve funds to support long-term financial planning. “Continuing to invest in our capital reserves is critical to funding our Asset Management Plan priorities,” said Ms. Barta. “This ensures the township is prepared for future needs without compromising current service levels.”
Council members praised the presentation and the township’s focus on balancing fiscal responsibility with service delivery. Mayor Wilma Wotten emphasized the importance of public engagement in the budget process.
“This budget reflects the feedback we’ve received from residents and council’s commitment to delivering high-quality services,” said Mayor Wotten. “We encourage the community to review the draft and share their thoughts as we move toward final approval.”
The draft budget will be available for public review, with opportunities for input before council votes on its adoption later this month. Residents are encouraged to participate in the discussion to help shape Scugog’s priorities for 2025.
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