‘Modest’ tax hike needed despite tough times: Severn mayor

Severn Township is raising taxes while also acknowledging the financial hardships some residents are facing during the coronavirus pandemic.

Mayor Mike Burkett said it would be irresponsible for the township to dip into its savings to shield residents from the impact of what he said was a relatively small increase to the tax levy.

“Council believes that drawing from capital reserves to avoid a tax increase is not a responsible way to protect municipal infrastructure, now and in the future, requiring us to make the difficult decision of imposing a modest tax increase,” Burkett said.

Township council, in approving its 2021 budget, has supported an estimated total tax rate increase of 2.45 per cent.

That amounts to an additional $69 in property taxes next year for the owner of an average single-family home.

Resident Bill Tasker isn’t opposed to paying the additional freight so long as it is reflected in improved services.

Policing in particular is one area in which Tasker supports investment.

“I think that is something that is really lacking in the area,” he told Simcoe.com.

Included in the budget are plans for significant reinvestment in core infrastructure, including more than $4 million for road upgrades.

While stressing the need to invest in infrastructure and maintain services, Burkett acknowledged the pandemic has impacted community members financially.

“We understand that our residents may be struggling through the financial impacts of COVID-19,” he added.

Other investments approved in the budget include more than $1.28 million for water and wastewater utilities — $800,000 of which is dedicated to the continued production of safe drinking water.

The municipality will also invest in outdoor recreation facilities with the support of federal and provincial grants.

Funds are earmarked for new universal washrooms in parks and an outdoor sports field.

The budget reflects the funding needed to maintain current service levels for the township and its shared service partners, including the township’s library, Orillia and Lake Country Tourism, Severn Sound Environmental Association, the OPP and the county.

In addition to infrastructure works, Severn’s budget includes funds to modernize the township’s financial systems and improve communication with residents.