Property Taxes to increase in Brampton 

BRAMPTON, ON – The City of Brampton finalized its 2018 budget yesterday (Wednesday, December 6), where residents will see 1.7% increase to the city portion of their tax bill, and a 2.7% total increase when factoring in the Peel Region (1%) and school board (no increase).

“Though I am excited about the growth of the city through new jobs, projects and initiatives, I am disappointed in the $21.6 million in staff salary increases and lack of cuts made in the budget,” said Councillor Gurpreet Dhillon. “With the elimination of a number high profile jobs that occurred since September 2016, there should have been more in the budget to cover these new positions.”

Along with voting against the salary compensation portion of the budget, Councillor Dhillon voted against funding for the Brampton Beast hockey team which will receive $1.5 million for a three-year period, as well as voting against the cash bus fare increase from $3.75 to $4.

His motion to reduce the seniors’ monthly bus pass to $15 from $52 also failed, with only Councillor Pat Fortini voting in support.

“I am disappointed that my motion to reduce the seniors’ monthly bus pass was rejected for the second time, though it was fully-funded with no increase to the tax rate,” said Councillor Dhillon. “Affordability has become a major issue in our City, and I will continue to work to ensure that our residents are not further burdened as the cost of living rises.

“I congratulate my colleagues on a spirited debate and look forward to continued discussion on the issues that affect our residents the most,” said Councillor Dhillon.