What you need to know about Brockville’s 2025 budget, passed this week

Homeowners in Brockville will pay an average of $156.45 extra per year in property taxes, according to the City’s 2025 budget, which was passed by council on Tuesday, Jan. 28.

Every year, the budget strives to maintain essential services, support critical infrastructure upgrades, and address the community’s operational priorities.

A property tax increase of 3.77 per cent in 2025 will result in an estimated $156.45 annual increase, or $13.04 per month, for the average home valued at $250,000. In addition, Council has introduced a new Health Care Levy at a rate of 0.25 per cent. This levy will raise approximately $114,000 in 2025, equating to $12 annually,for the average home, and will directly contribute to capital building campaigns, physician recruitment, and other health-related initiatives.

“During the 2025 budget process, Council and staff worked collaboratively to strike a balance between maintaining services that residents rely on and completing necessary infrastructure projects while managing tax increases,” said Mayor Matt Wren. “This is always a challenge, especially as costs continue to rise. However, we are proud to support critical initiatives like healthcare worker recruitment and local community grants. We are also moving forward with projects that will enhance Brockville’s public spaces, such as the expansion of the Brock Trail and the creation of a new public washroom by the Farmer’s Market.”

Key investments in the 2025 budget include:

• $14 million allocated to capital projects, including:
  • $2 million for the replacement of the Memorial Centre roof
  • $4.3 million for road rehabilitation and infrastructure replacement
  • $1 million for the maintenance of City buildings
  • $355,000 for upgrades to athletic fields
  • $1.1 million for improvements to waterfront amenities
  • $400,000 for the replacement of outdated play structures
  • $810,000 for the expansion of the Brock Trail
  • $200,000 for a new public washroom on Market Street West
  • $30,000 to launch a kayak rental initiative at St. Lawrence Park

Additionally, through the budget process, staff were directed to establish a community grants program by spring to support local organizations.

Mayor Wren also expressed his gratitude to residents and organizations who contributed their ideas and feedback during the budget process, noting he values the input and looks forward to continued collaboration.

The final 2025 Budget book, which includes a detailed breakdown of the initiatives and projects outlined above, will be available on the City’s website following the passage of the necessary by-laws on Feb. 11.

Information taken from a media release from the City of Brockville.