City Council approves 2024 budget during year’s final Council meeting

City Council approved the 2024 budget during Monday’s Regular City Council. The approval comes after four lengthy public Special Planning Committee meetings. After a 5.12% tax increase was initially proposed by Administration, Monday’s newly-approved general tax increase for 2024 has been reduced to 4.42%.         

Finance Director Margarita Pena thanked members of Council and Administration for their work in compiling this difficult City budget. “It is certainly a team effort to put together a budget like this, particularly when inflation is hitting everyone so hard. The City is no different, and I appreciate Council’s suggestions and guidance as we were able to find the efficiencies required to lower the proposed general tax rate for 2024.” 

Pena added that RCMP costs are the main driving factor in the City’s taxation increase, with 3.75% of the general tax rate designated for policing costs.    

City residents will see no changes to the Recreation & Cultural Capital Facility Level (RCCF) or Underground Pipe and Asphalt Replacement (UPAR) fund for 2024. However, Waste Management garbage and recycling collection rates will increase at 4.4% due to a contract increase with the City’s service provider. Water Services utilities will increase at 4.5% and Sanitary Sewer utilities will increase 4%.    

The City’s Finance Department anticipates mill rates will be set in May 2024 to establish property tax bills for the new year. Any outstanding property tax amounts owing are set to incur a 10% penalty beginning January 2, 2024 if amounts remain unpaid. Tax inquiries can be made by calling 306-445-1706 or emailing taxes@cityofnb.ca.     

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For more information:
Candace Toma, Public & Intergovernmental Relations Coordinator
306-441-0713 | publicrelations@cityofnb.ca