Brantford passes 2024 budget with 5.47% property tax increase

Brantford councillors passed the city’s 2024-27 budget Tuesday night with a 5.47 per cent increase to property tax for residents.

The property tax hike translates to an overall increase of $15.99 a month or $191.90 annually for the average residential taxpayer in 2024.

Two things are considered when calculating the property tax bill for residential properties: service partners – which city council has no control over – and city services.

City services reportedly make up 66 per cent, or $129,333,210, of the 2024 budget and on its own would result in a property tax increase of 4.20 per cent.

Service partners on the other hand, including Brantford Police Services, John Noble Home, Brantford Public Library and the Brant County Health Unit, collectively account for 34 per cent.

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Contributing to the property tax increase is a portion of the budget dedicated to local boards and agencies, over which city council and the mayor have no control.

It totals to $66,798,543 of the budget and justifies the property tax jump from 4.20 per cent to 5.47 per cent.

The budget focuses on strategic investments in housing affordability, support services, shelter system improvements, and infrastructure development for future growth.

Mayor Kevin Davis says this budget will maintain and enhance essential services while being mindful of taxpayers facing economic challenges.

“I’m confident this financial plan upholds council’s commitment to financing necessary operational and capital requirements to improve quality of life for Brantford residents,” Davis says.