Chatham-Kent officials have launched a new online survey to gather public input on where and how property tax dollars are spent.
Residents can have their say on the 2024-2027 Chatham-Kent budget through the Let's Talk Chatham-Kent website, which allows them to express their thoughts on what services they feel are important and whether spending should be increased or decreased.
"The survey concludes with an opportunity for residents to provide general comments," read a statement from the municipality. "The survey results and public comments will be used by the administration in the development of the budget and will be provided to Chatham-Kent Council prior to deliberations."
Steve Brown, director of budget and performance services, said the online survey also offers residents a chance to assist in developing the municipality’s spending plan for the next four years.
Brown said the survey is the first of two surveys that residents will have an opportunity to participate in.
The second survey to be launched in late summer will allow residents to weigh in on potential recommended changes prior to the draft budget being released to Council on November 15.
"The more information we have and the earlier we have it, the better we can understand the needs of the community,” said Brown.
The online survey will be open until June 26, 2023.
