Perth County Approves 2025 Budget in Principle

NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PERTH COUNTY, ON – At a special meeting on April 10, 2025, Perth County Council adopted the 2025 Capital and Operating budgets in principle. The approved 2025 budget represents an increase of $2,910,397 from last year. This amount represents an additional $103.32 annually per household which is $1.99 per week (based on average 2016 MPAC household value of $282,000). The approved budget represents a total 11.34% increase to the annual budget. This amount incorporates the annual assessment growth for the County of 1.77%.

“Council understands the financial pressures faced by municipal governments. The 2025 budget was carefully reviewed to ensure all opportunities for cost-saving measures were considered while still maintaining current service levels.” said Warden Doug Kellum. “In light of inflationary pressures, Council worked to mitigate this year’s increase by pausing some proposed projects for consideration in future budget years.”

“There is no doubt that inflation has a significant impact on this budget year.” said Corey Bridges, Director of Finance / Treasurer. “It has reached into every aspect of our lives, and Municipalities across Ontario are faced with similar pressures. Staff are mindful of these pressures and continue to implement mitigating financial strategies to ensure financial stability.”

“We appreciate the support of Council with the approval of the 2025 budget.” said Lori Wolfe, Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). “Staff work hard to ensure that the annual budget reflects the needs of the County for critical projects and services required each year to support the goals of the Strategic Plan while being mindful of budget pressures.”

The County’s annual budget allocates funds for both Operating and Capital expenses. The County also budgets for contributions toward reserves which are established to fund long-term goals and to mitigate unpredictable or fluctuating nature of some annual costs such as Winter Maintenance or Drainage. The reserve contribution for 2025 represents 1.33% of the total levy increase in order to stabilize annual costs. This investment also serves to close the gap to cover costs downloaded by the Province.

A By-Law will be brought forward at the next regular Council meeting on April 17, 2025 which will complete the 2025 budget process.

About the Budget:

The 2025 Budget was provided to Council in November 2024. Capital and Operating Budget presentations delivered by the Director of Finance / Treasurer over several Council meetings in November and December. The programs and projects are informed by the County’s Corporate Strategic Plan 2023-2026. The 5 goals of the plan include: Growth and Economic Development; Regionalization and Service Effectiveness; Customer Service Excellence; Community Development and Planning; and Corporate Sustainability.

To view the budget, visit www.perthcounty.ca/finance.

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Perth County is a vibrant upper-tier municipality located in Southwestern, Ontario and is home to a regional population of 81,565 residents. This rural region is comprised of 4 lower-tier member municipalities. To find out more information about our services, visit: www.perthcounty.ca or follow us on Facebook and X.

Media contact:
Corey Bridges, Director of Finance / Treasurer
cbridges@perthcounty.ca
519-271-0531 ext 220

Attachments

2025-04-11 - NEWS RELEASE - Perth County Approves 2025 Budget in Principle