Port Hope Mayor Olena Hankivsky officially introduced her budget at Tuesday night’s council meeting.
As previously reported, the details were already known as Hankivsky opted to hold the staff presentations and council questions and proposed amendments in an open meeting which was held a week earlier.
“It was a very collaborative process and I appreciated everyone’s input around the council table,” Hankivsky said. “I also really appreciate all the staff time that went into presenting the budget to us.”
The initial proposed tax levy increase was 3.42%, but council unanimously supported a motion by the mayor to reduce it to 2.70% with the use of Community Benefit Reserve Funds to offset costs associated with remaining approved capital and operating projects.
Tuesday night she clarified the use of the reserves “that have been talked about in the public around how this is going to happen” and noted it’s not existing reserves.
“We’re not depleting something that is currently in the municipality,” she said. “This is new growth money. We are using it responsibly – we have a cushion for the upcoming years and so it is a way to pass on some of the savings that we have realized as a municipality through our engagement with OPG and the province and we will continue to work towards the fiscal responsibility and sustainability of this community, but with the view of the increasing cost of living that all of us are feeling.”
Under Strong Mayor Powers legislation, Hankivsky had to introduce her draft budget by Feb. 1. Due to the advance collaborative process, council previously voted to reduce its official amendment period from 30 days to 14 and a potential override period from 15 days to 11 if required. The mayor agreed to reduce her veto period from 10 days to three.
The steps are required under the legislation, but shouldn’t be needed in Port Hope’s case.
“I’m confident that this budget reflects our shared priorities and supports our strategic future growth for the community,” Hankivsky said.
Previous story: https://todaysnorthumberland.ca/2026/01/16/port-hope-mayor-to-introduce-budget-at-january-20-council-meeting/
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
