Northumberland County has released its fourth Annual Report. "This report continues to be an important part of the County's financial accountability and transparency measures, as we share with our residents details about the services the County provides, and the results being achieved," indicated Warden Mark Walas. "As with previous years, this report confirms that we are on the right track in managing the financial health of the organization while delivering programs and services that are fostering a thriving and inclusive community." This report highlights key 2016 accomplishments and related financial data, as well as interesting statistics about the County's work, staff profiles, volunteer information and more.
Second quarter results confirm 2017 Budget on track
CAO Jennifer Moore and Finance Director & Treasurer Glenn Dees provided an update to Council on the status of the 2017 Budget and related projects as of the end of the second quarter, noting that the County is on track with projections. CAO Moore noted that we have reached the half-way mark through Council's four-year Strategic Plan, and this is evidenced by the volume of completed projects that we are starting to see reflected in these quarterly updates.
The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) is circulating a proposal to municipal governments across the province regarding pursuit of a sustainable funding model for Ontario municipalities. Following a review of 44 potential revenue options, AMO is seeking support from councils to approach the provincial government with a proposal for a one per cent (1%) increase to the provincial portion of the HST. This increase would be dedicated to municipalities, helping to fund critical local services like roads and bridges - where a significant gap in available funds currently exists - while helping to reduce the upward pressure on property tax bills for residents. County Council voted to support AMO in its efforts to secure this new source of revenue as an additional means of helping to fund critical municipal infrastructure.
Warden reflects on recent Affordable Housing Announcement
Reflecting on the July 10th announcement by the federal, provincial and County governments regarding the 31 affordable housing units being built at 86 Munroe Street in Cobourg, Warden Walas noted that investments like this are vital to effective homelessness prevention systems. "Through the County's work on the 20,000 Homes Campaign, we identified many individuals who are homeless or at risk of homelessness here in Northumberland," stated Warden Walas. "By increasing our local stock of affordable housing we are taking another step forward in fulfilling the vision that all people in Northumberland have a safe, affordable place to live.
Council in favour of VIA Rail High-Frequency Train project
County Council has voted to support a resolution from the Eastern Ontario Warden's Caucus regarding VIA Rail's High-Frequency Train project.The resolution calls upon the federal government to provide financial support for the project, and requests that the provincial government include this project in the list of priority infrastructure projects for Ontario. Additionally, both levels of government are called upon to ensure the project is carried out in a way that enables the user to have direct and fast access to railway stations and hubs in communities across rural Eastern Ontario. Several County Councillors noted the further importance of affordability for the user as a key consideration in the development of this project.
Roseneath Emergency Services Base Tender: Council has approved the bid from Taskforce Engineering Inc. for the design build of a joint Emergency Services Base in collaboration with the Township of Alnwick/Haldimand for $3,332,600 plus HST.
Economic Development Master Plan moves forward: Council has adopted Northumberland County's Integrated Economic Development Master Plan and has instructed staff to begin implementation of the plan's recommendations.
Vacant Unit Rebate and Excess Land Tax Subclasses Review: Staff will report back to Council following a review of policy options, impacts, public engagement findings and final recommendations regarding rebate and property tax reduction programs.
Joint emergency services base in Campbellford moves forward: Council has approved staff moving forward with the development of the site and site plan for the new base, on property to be jointly owned by the County and Trent Hills. This will be followed by development of a Request for Proposals for construction of this base in 2018.
