SF Levy to ratepayers set to go up by $3.88% in 2024

Wilma Kenny | Dec 20, 2023

On Dec 12, Treasurer Shelly Stedall took staff and Council through a morning-long presentation of the draft budget for the coming year. With a target of 2% increase “along with known inflationary costs in the current economy”, the budget proposal comes in at an overall 2.77% increase in the average taxpayer impact.

The Township’s tax bill has three components: Education (set by the province); the County share, which is set by the County, and the Township’s portion, which is the part determined by South Frontenac Council. This last portion reflects the community’s values and priorities.

“Our Township is in a very strong financial condition, and this budget maintains it,” said Stedall. She explained that draw-downs from reserves are for specific purposes, not to reduce tax rates; for example, the Town Hall extension will require a large draw-down.

Some details: the Frontenac Arch Biosphere’s request for $17,000 was not accommodated, because the Township does not fund operating costs. The majority of discussion centred around the repair of the Fourteen Island Lake dam. CAO Fragnito said any monies would be provided as a grant, which would take away any liability, and be one-time only.

The quality of the recording deteriorated near the latter part of the meeting; someone said they had had complaints from residents that the Township’s reserves were too high. There was agreement that this indicated a need for better communication with residents.

Deputy Mayor Sleeth had to leave the meeting early: “Given the times, I am in support of the presented budget; it’s very professionally done.” Councillor Leonard agreed: “I think we have the right people in the right positions to thank for all of this.” Mayor Vandewal concurred; “We have an excellent management team.”

This is Treasurer Stedall’s last week with the Township; she has been offered a position at Loyalist Township, near her home in Belleville.

“It has been an absolute pleasure to work with this Township - thanks to Louise Fragnito, our directors and managers,” she said.

CAO Fragnito was appointed as (interim) treasurer.