County of Essex residents who own a home assessed at $250,000 will pay an extra $63.88 in taxes for 2024.
The increase comes in at 4.95 per cent.
Council approved the area's budget on Wednesday, saying that it's fiscally responsible and maintains services despite inflationary pressures.
"We are preparing for growth by investing in services that will ensure residents and businesses continue to find Essex County a great place with a bright future," Warden Hilda MacDonald said. "Thanks to careful planning, the 2024 Budget maintains the county's prudent approach and strong financial position."
Council focused on investments in frontline health care, affordable housing, and infrastructure when deciding the budget.
In an effort to keep the county healthy, the budget includes funding for 16 new Paramedics, the replacement of eight ambulances, and 44 automated CPR devices. A $6.36 million payment will be put toward Essex County’s $100 million commitment to the new regional hospital. A 10-year commitment to upgrade equipment and infrastructure at Erie Shores HealthCare will also begin with the 2024 budget.
According to Council, the 2024 budget invests significantly in the expansion of affordable and supportive housing in Essex County. This includes the construction of 36 tiny homes in partnership with The Bridge in Leamington, a continued commitment to provide funding to The Bridge for the operation of 12 supportive housing units, and funding for the Homeless Hub in Leamington.
The budget also supports the hiring of a community services coordinator to help oversee 10 supportive housing facilities with a total of 228 beds.
A significant portion of the budget will go toward road construction and rehabilitation and other key infrastructure projects.
Other budget highlights include increased staffing hours at Sun Parlor Home and extended hours at the Essex County Library’s Harrow branch.
Sandra Zwiers, Essex County's Chief Administrative Officer expressed her appreciation for everyone's hard work during the budget deliberation process.
"County of Essex staff from all departments are to be commended for the effort they put into making sure the 2024 Budget addresses the needs and expectations of residents and local municipalities while strategically determining how every dollar can be spent as effectively as possible," she said.
