At the March 10th Council-in-Committee meeting, Petawawa staff presented the 2025 budget, initially proposing a 7% property tax increase. After discussions, the Council requested a revision, reducing the increase to 5%. Staff made the adjustments, and the updated budget was approved.
The revised budget, with a 5% tax increase, includes changes marked in red. The Council also approved the 2025 Water and Wastewater Budgets, but these require approval from the County of Renfrew, expected by March 28th. Once the County’s tax rates are set, Petawawa will finalize tax rates and issue bills.
The Water Budget has sufficient funds for 2024-2028, but the Wastewater Budget needs attention due to previous funding used for the Net Zero project. A joint Utility Rate Study with CFB Petawawa is underway.
The 5% tax increase will impact property owners differently. A $400,000 home will see a $97.86 increase, bringing the total tax bill to $2,055.13. Additionally, water rates will rise 4.2%, and wastewater rates will rise 4.5%, adding $40.36 annually for a typical residential property.
These changes ensure the Town of Petawawa can maintain services and infrastructure while managing its finances responsibly.
(Written by: Emma Butler)