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Leamington council approves 3.8 tax increase for 2024

AM800-NEWS-Leamington-sign-1.2811863 AM800-NEWS-Leamington-sign ((Photo by AM800's Zander Broeckel))

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The 3.8 per cent increase works out to an additional 93.89 for an average urban home assessed at 190,000

Leamington residents will need to dig a little deeper in 2024 after council approved a tax hike last week.

The 3.8 per cent increase works out to an additional $93.89 for an average urban home assessed at $190,000.

According to the municipality, the increase is approximately $7.82 a month and for every $100,000 of assessment, the increase amounts to $49.42.

In a release, Leamington mayor Hilda MacDonald said, "The necessary tax increase, driven by inflationary pressures and the priority to address our community's rapid growth, is a measured response to the economic realities we face. This budget reflects a delicate balance between sustaining essential services, investing in critical infrastructure, and acknowledging the needs of our residents. We understand the impact on households, and every decision made has been with a focus on maintaining the quality of life that defines Leamington."

Leamington's 2024 capital budget, totals $60.3 million and includes infrastructure investments for sewer separation and road reconstruction projects.

It also includes carry-forward projects from 2023, primarily focusing on infrastructure growth, renewal projects, and parks.

Major 2024 capital projects include:

Audrey/Margaret/Jane/Claire Sewer SeparationSeacliff Reconstruction – Phase 3-4Road Resurfacing

2023 carry-forward capital projects include:

Mersea Park RenewalRick Atkin Park RenewalWigle/Orange/Setterington Mill Watermain ReplacementPCC Headworks UpgradeEmergency GeneratorSeacliff West Trunk Sewer ExtensionSouthwest Leamington Storm Water Management (SWM) Pond ConstructionOak Street Sewer ReliningLeamington Marina Parking Lot