2023 Budget Highlights
Tax rate increase of 3.75 percent, an average of $5.50 per month
Council approved Lakeshore’s 2023 Budget on Tuesday, February 14, 2023.
On average, the 3.75 percent increase in tax rate will add $5.50 per month ($66 per year) to the municipal portion of property tax bills.
Council also approved the 2023 User Fees By-law which sets out the fees and charges for a wide range of municipal services and activities.
“The discussions and decisions made during our deliberations reflected the difficult nature of this year’s budget. As a Council, we had to balance cost increases due to inflation and the need to meet service levels, with the financial impact to residents and taxpayers,” said Mayor Tracey Bailey. “We understand that every dollar matters to our residents and this budget maintains our competitive position in the region while sustainably investing in the projects and services that make Lakeshore a great place to live, work, and play.”
Council Moves to Protect Rural Areas
Greenhouses and battery energy storage systems considered
Earlier this year, Lakeshore Council approved several resolutions designed to preserve the integrity of the municipality’s rural areas and communities.
“We know that these areas and communities are critical to Lakeshore’s identity and history, and they have been a key focus for Council since our term began,” said Mayor Tracey Bailey.
First, Council considered amendments to Lakeshore’s Official Plan and Zoning By-law to permit and regulate greenhouses within the municipality, and approved several changes to the proposed amendments, including:
- Measures designed to eliminate negative impacts such as lighting, odour, and stockpiling of waste.
- Expanded setback distances from settlement areas and homes.
- Requirements for studies and additional information on stormwater and discharge monitoring, as well as financial and community impacts.
Council also directed Administration to bring a report on a potential study for designating a greenhouse “business park.”
Council also provided Municipal Support Resolutions (MSRs) to four Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) proposals participating in the Independent Electricity System Operator’s Expedited Request for Proposal process.
The projects were supported after the creation of ranking criteria, which considered a project’s proximity to settlement areas and similar land uses, as well as adjacent road conditions and classifications.
Road Closure Reminder
With construction coming up, local drivers may experience delays and detours on local roads.
Get the most up-to-date information on current and upcoming road closures to help plan your daily commute.
Check out the full list of closures at:
Lakeshore.ca/Closures
Starting this year, all of Lakeshore’s building permit applications will be made using the online Cloudpermit platform.
The platform, which is used by local governments in the region and across North America, will allow applicants to submit applications and related documents, as well as receive updates and permits.
Fence By-law Reminder
Don’t forget, By-law 39-2018 requires that you have a permit for the construction of a fence on your property. Residents are encouraged to consult the by-law, which sets out height and material restrictions for all fences, including pool fences.
Contact the Building Division for a permit before work starts and learn more at:
Key Dates Coming Up
- March 7
Council meeting - March 8
Spring A recreation program registration begins - March 21
Council meeting - March 31
Council strategic planning - April 4
Council meeting - April 26
Spring B non-aquatic recreation program begins - April 28
Property tax due date (second installment)
Hosting a local event that’s open to the public? Add it to Lakeshore’s free online community event calendar at: Lakeshore.ca/Events
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