On January 23, Champlain Township council approved its 2025 budget with a six per cent property tax increase over last year’s rate. The township is expecting to take in $8,559,036 in total tax revenue, or an additional $571,225 from 2024 numbers.
The average residential property value in Champlain is $231,258, and with the six per cent increase in the tax rate, residents can expect to pay $98.03 more in municipal property taxes annually.
Treasurer France Thauvette explained that the six per cent increase is attributed to the rise of Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) service costs, pay bumps in line with inflation for township employees, and adding funds to its reserves.
Councillor Paul Emile Duval wanted to put less of Champlain’s budget toward its reserves, stating that “I’d like to see us bring the tax rate down to 5.4 per cent.”
However, Chief Administrative Officer Kevin Tessier strongly suggested keeping the reserve contribution amount stable at the recommended percentage, highlighting that these reserve funds would help absorb extra costs that the township may incur without exposing themselves to financial strain.
“I have confidence in what they can propose and then what they will do as a result,” Councillor André Roy stated.
The 2025 budget will total $15,977,871 and includes numerous investments in services alongside grants the township is expected to receive.
OPP services are going to cost $1,322,000 in 2025, accounting for a rise of $188,000. This amount does not include court security costs.
Additionally, planned investment projects include relining the L’Orignal main and lateral sewage pipes at a projected cost of $1,053,935. Thauvette stated that the project would proceed if the township was approved for $769,373 in grants to offset the majority of the associated costs.
The planned wastewater treatment plant replacement of its UV system will cost $440,000, and the replacement of two force mains will cost an additional $890,000.
Other investments will include installing bicycle repair stations at Miner Park, Mill Street Park, and L’Orignal Park for $10,850, with work also to be done on the concrete foundation blocks of the Vankleek Hill Community Centre for $14,000, and the installation of a dehumidification and cooling system for its lobby for $15,000.
This year, Champlain Township will receive its annual provincial municipal grant of $1,357,000, which includes an increase of $148,300 from 2024. $283,780 in federal gas tax revenue, with an estimated $273,000 in UCPR public works assistance funding, and $231,000 in Ontario community infrastructure funding also being expected.
The 2025 budget was approved with Duval against and Councillor Peter Barton absent.
