FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Middlesex County Adopts 2024 Budget Focused on Essential Services and Strategic Investments
MIDDLESEX COUNTY, March 26, 2024 – At the March 26 Council Meeting, County Council passed By-law #7268 to adopt the 2024 Budget of the County of Middlesex. Middlesex County is proud to announce the 2024 Budget, which reflects the County's dedication to providing essential services to its residents while navigating the challenges posed by increasing costs of living influenced by provincial and federal policy decisions.
With a tax rate increase of 2.93%, Middlesex County demonstrates a balance between meeting the needs of its community and the financial burdens faced by taxpayers. This increase translates to an additional $12.62 per $100,000 of the value of the property according to its MPAC assessment.
The 2024 Budget prioritizes investments in core services such as Middlesex-London Paramedic Service (MLPS), Social Services, Strathmere Lodge, Planning & Woodlots, Middlesex County Library, Economic Development and Middlesex County Connect. These investments encompass enhancements in child care and EarlyON programs, maintenance and extension of paramedic service hours, technological upgrades at Strathmere Lodge and the development of a Middlesex County Tourism Tool, among others.
Furthermore, the Transportation Infrastructure Program outlines crucial projects such as bridge replacements, the installation of new traffic signals on major intersections, and the 2024 County Road Paving Program planned to pave more than 40,000 metres of roads this year.
Through strategic partnerships and a commitment to legislated and people-oriented services, the County maintains one of the lowest upper-tier tax rates in Southwestern Ontario. More importantly, the 2024 Budget does not draw from the Tax Rate Stabilization Reserve, highlighting Middlesex County's fiscal responsibility and stability.
QUOTES:
"We are pleased to present a budget that reflects our commitment to providing essential services while being mindful of the financial realities faced by our residents. As we navigate the challenges posed by economic fluctuations and policy changes, we remain committed to fiscal management, making strategic investments and delivering essential services effectively to our communities." – Warden Aina DeViet
“The 2024 Middlesex County Budget is the culmination of extensive collaboration, careful planning, and a shared commitment to the well-being and prosperity of our community. The budget reflects our dedication to responsible fiscal management and delivering essential services in accordance with the Middlesex County Council Strategic Plan.” – Cindy Howard, General Manager of Finance and Community Services
For more information about the 2024 Middlesex County Budget and Budget Highlights, please visit the Middlesex County Website
-30-
Middlesex County is an innovative, well-run organization offering high-value programs and services to the best community in which to live, visit, and do business in Southwestern Ontario. The County serves a vibrant, growing community of 78,000 people and offers a great place to call home, offering exceptional lifestyle, a wide variety of local attractions, and wonderful sense of community.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Middlesex County Media Relations Legislative Services Division