Richmond Hill Operating Budget Deliberations Begin

Residents can learn more and participate

RICHMOND HILL – Richmond Hill Council set a direction for the Town’s 2019 Operating Budget last June. Maintaining service levels while keeping tax rates reasonable is the priority of Richmond Hill Council as deliberations begin on the 2019 Operating Budget. Presentations from departments are being held in open session where the public can attend or watch the meeting online.

Richmond Hill's Operating Budget covers the costs of everyday operations and activities, including utilities, rent, insurance, staff wages and benefits, program supplies, transportation and repairs. Funds for the Operating Budget come from taxes, fees and other items, such as program registrations.

Over the years, Richmond Hill has faced financial pressures including slower growth, new legislation and inflationary pressures on operating costs. The 2019 Operating Budget reflects the various pressures through expense and revenue categories.

“We are always working hard to achieve the lowest possible tax rate in Richmond Hill while maintaining excellent service levels for our residents,” said Budget Chair, Deputy Mayor Joe DiPaola. “We have ensured value by taking advantage of all available funding and grant opportunities.”

The Operating Budget will be presented to Council on:

• Tuesday, February 19 at 1 p.m. 
• Tuesday, February 26 at 1 p.m.

“We hope that residents will take the opportunity to learn more and participate in the budget process,” added Mayor Dave Barrow.

All meetings will take place in the Council Chambers at the Town’s Main Municipal Offices at 225 East Beaver Creek Road, 1st floor and can be viewed live online at RichmondHill.ca. Residents can provide feedback by emailing budget@richmondhill.ca and by contacting their local Councillor.

Quick Facts

• Richmond Hill’s budget is comprised of the Operating Budget, Capital Budget and Water, Wastewater and Stormwater Budget. 
• Richmond Hill's Capital Budget outlines the financial needs for new infrastructure and the maintenance of existing infrastructure such as community centres, fire stations, pools, parks, trails, arenas, roads and sidewalks. The Capital Budget was approved at the February 11, 2019 Council meeting. A copy of the presentation can be found at RichmondHill.ca/Budget.
• The Operating Budget determines the annual tax rate which Council approves.
• Only 28 cents of every tax dollar collected goes to pay for Richmond Hill services through the Operating Budget (48 cents goes to the Region for their services and 24 cents goes to Education).

Associated Links
RichmondHill.ca/Budget

For more information, please contact:
David Dexter, Treasurer and Director, Corporate and Financial Services, 905-771-2484, david.dexter@richmondhill.ca