Hastings County sets 2022 budget

Hastings County has set a budget that shows an increase in the levy for member municipalities.

At its meeting on Monday, County Council set the 2022 budget at $162.1 million.

This increased the levy for the 14 municipalities at 4.2 per cent.

The fact that the county has seen a 1.5 per cent in growth means this levy has been cut in half.

The levy was set at a 2.7 per cent hike for the 14 member municipalities.

Director of Finance Sue Horwood explains.

“So, the levy is going up by 4.22 per cent but because of growth, the taxpayer’s only going to see a 2.7 % increase on their tax bill.”

Horwood added, “52% of the budget is spent on community and human services programs to support Ontario Works, child care and housing.”

” … 24% to Long Term Care to operate our two homes that support 263 residents, 15% of our spending is on the paramedic services, it also provides service to Prince Edward County.”

Horwood explained the cost-sharing among the municipalities, Belleville, Quinte West and Hastings County. “They share in joint services of Community and Human Services, EMS, Long Term Care, POA and 911. Each pay 29%.”

Hastings County Warden Rick Phillips said, “It’s great to see this growth in the county.”

The budget report noted the pandemic had an impact on the vulnerable population that the county serves and during the pandemic there was an increase in demand for services.

They include homelessness, child care, and paramedic services.

Over the next few months there will be a staff review of the county operations to ensure it can meet the challenges coming.