Mayor Liggett presents Council with proposed 2025 Strong Mayor Budget

Posted on Monday October 28, 2024

City services and infrastructure levy set property tax increase at 1.26%

Cambridge, Ontario. (October 28, 2024) Mayor Jan Liggett presented City of Cambridge Council with the proposed 2025 Strong Mayor Budget this evening, which outlines funding for more than 140 city services and an infrastructure renewal levy, resulting in a total property tax increase of 1.26%.

“This budget supports the services, programs, and facilities we enjoy as a community while also planning for the future and the betterment of our city,” said Mayor Liggett. “We have kept the struggles of taxpayers top of mind throughout this process and I am pleased to present a budget that balances the needs of the community with considerable economic pressures.”

Starting in July 2025, stormwater costs will be collected in a new way. Approved by Council on July 16, a portion of the 2025 stormwater costs will transition from the property tax bill to the water utility bill. This new stormwater utility, based on individual property usage, ensures that charges better reflect the amount of runoff each property generates. Operating as a utility is also expected to deliver additional savings for the average residential homeowner. This shift follows a thorough review of our water billing practices.

The proposed budget includes a commitment to economic growth and focuses on key priorities such as road and winter maintenance, parks, recreation and culture, fire services, planning, economic development, and libraries. It also includes a 1% infrastructure renewal levy to maintain City assets in good condition and address the current funding gap over the next ten years.  Members of the public who wish to delegate to Council regarding the proposed budget may do so on November 7 in Council Chambers or virtually by registering as a delegate for either the afternoon or evening. Members of the public wishing to have their voices heard that are unable to delegate may also send written correspondence to Clerks@cambridge.ca

The City has prepared various communication materials for the public to access which provide information relating to Strong Mayor Legislation, how the budget works, timelines and infographics, links to important dates, and the complete Mayor’s Budget document. Please visit, cambridge.ca/mayorsbudget for more information.