The Municipality of Port Hope is introducing a revised approach to the 2025 budget meeting process, ensuring that Members of Council have ample time to review and discuss proposed budget materials before making final decisions. The new schedule is designed to encourage thoughtful deliberation and engagement over the course of several weeks, with the goal of approving the 2025 budget by the end of the year.
Throughout October and November, Council will participate in a series of focused meetings, each dedicated to specific aspects of the budget, including development charges, community grants, and departmental presentations. This phased approach aims to foster collaboration and transparency, giving both Council and the community the opportunity to thoroughly assess the financial needs for the upcoming year.
The key dates for the 2025 budget discussions are as follows:
October 8 – Development Charges Public Meeting and deliberations on Community Grants and Donations
October 17 – Council’s pre-budget engagement drop-in – Fire Station #3, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
October 22 – Presentation of the Library Board budget
November 12 – Presentation of the Police Board budget
November 19 – Full-day Council review of the proposed 2025 budget
November 26 – Anticipated approval of the 2025 budget by Council
These sessions will provide additional opportunities for public engagement and ensure a thorough examination of the Municipality’s financial priorities for the upcoming year.
Detailed budget materials will be made available on our website prior to each budget meeting, allowing residents to review the proposed financial information in advance.
In addition, the Municipality is currently conducting a budget-focused community engagement initiative aimed at gathering feedback about municipal services that directly affect the tax levy. Residents are encouraged to share their input on priorities and services through our budget survey. Your participation will help guide Council’s decisions as they work to allocate resources effectively for the upcoming year.
Members of Council will be out in the community in the coming days and weeks to connect with residents and property owners, discuss local needs, and encourage participation in the budget survey.
For budget materials and to participate in the survey, please visit porthope.ca/budget.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
