Ramara/November 29, 2023 – At Monday’s Council meeting, Ramara Council approved its 2024 budget with a 5% increase on the municipal portion of the tax rate, equating to an extra $28.41 per $100,000 assessment value.

Each year, Ramara Township’s Council develops a budget that supports the funding needed to maintain current services and service levels. This year, the budget reflects the reinvestment into core infrastructure and the strategic planning of future roads and recreation, with 18.4 million allocated to capital projects.

This year’s budget presented a challenge to Council as we continue to invest in our services and infrastructure that meet the needs of our community now and in the future while being fiscally responsible. Similar to residents in the community, the township is impacted financially with cost increases, supply chain disruptions and limited revenue. This year, we had to make the responsible but difficult decision to approve a five percent increase. I want to express my appreciation to the members of Council, staff and residents for their hard work and valuable contributions in the budget process.”   

 - Mayor Clarke

These are the following highlights from the 2024 Budget:

• Ramara Council allocated $18.4M in capital projects that include the following:
  • $5.9M in reserves will be utilized for the purchase and construction of capital projects in 2024.
  • Roughly $8.6M is allocated to road infrastructure projects, including completing Ramara Road 47, constructing a box culvert on Concession Road 9, installing an outdoor sports court and purchasing a tandem snow plow truck.
  • Roughly 1.2M is allocated to purchasing fire and rescue vehicles and communication equipment.
  • Roughly $135,000 is allocated to Recreation and Trails to construct a trail from Casino Rama to Airport Road and shade shelters at the Ramara Centre.
  • Roughly $6.7M is allocated to water and wastewater projects, including Bayshore sewage system upgrade, Lakeshore, Maple Ridge and Lone Birch servicing, equipment and upgrades at the water and wastewater facilities. Please be advised that the designated water and wastewater ratepayers support the water and wastewater budget through utility user fees.

• Two percent cost of living increase on all salaries and wages.

View the 2024 Budget and Budget Highlights on our website at www.ramara.ca.