At the March 18, 2025, Special Council Meeting, Niagara-on-the-Lake Town Council approved the 2025 Capital Budget for $17,215,239 and the 2025 Operating Budget for $55,140,242.
This budget focuses on creating a financially sustainable future while supporting the Town’s goal of Good Governance, as identified in Council’s Strategic Plan.
Key figures (based on the average residential assessment of $546,000):
- Total Annual Impact: $112.56 per year
- 2025 Capital Budget: $17.2 Million (an increase of $1.10 monthly from the 2024 budget)
- 2025 Operating Budget: $55 Million (an increase of $8.28 monthly from the 2024 budget)
- 2025 Operating Levy: $17.6 Million (an increase of $9.38 monthly from the 2024 budget)
- Stormwater Levy: $961,600 (no increase from the 2024 budget)
- As in previous years, those within the urban area will receive an additional levy for stormwater management purposes to support investment into stormwater management, keeping the systems strong and meeting legislative requirements. This year’s annual increase is:
- Combined Annual Increase (Operational and Stormwater Levy): $112.56
- As in previous years, those within the urban area will receive an additional levy for stormwater management purposes to support investment into stormwater management, keeping the systems strong and meeting legislative requirements. This year’s annual increase is:
Capital Budget
The capital budget prioritizes essential infrastructure upgrades and improvements to benefit the community, helping to deliver high-quality services and support growth.
Key projects in the 2025 Capital Budget include:
- Rebuilding Mississagua Street to improve transportation safety and accessibility.
- Replacing Pump 1, an important fire apparatus, and upgrading culverts on Line 2 Road and McNab Road to strengthen infrastructure.
- Restoring the Town’s historic boundary stones to preserve local heritage.
- Installing new soccer nets at Sparky’s Park to enhance recreational facilities.
To help fund these projects, the Town will issue $3.73 million in debentures, ensuring critical improvements can move forward while managing financial resources responsibly.
Operating Budget
The Operating Budget allocates funds to maintain the day-to-day functions of the Town and establishes the tax rate. It primarily covers expenses related to recreation programs, parks, fire services, planning and development, administrative services, road and sidewalk maintenance, winter operations, library services, and other similar costs.
Key projects in the 2025 Operating Budget include:
- Master Servicing Plan for roads infrastructure
- Special Event Policy
- Affordable & Attainable Housing Study
- Customer Relationship Management (CRM) System
- Digital Security Enhancements
- Information Technology Resources
Quotes
“This Budget reflects our commitment to building a strong future for Niagara-on-the-Lake. By investing in essential services, infrastructure, and community programs, we are ensuring the Town remains safe, vibrant, and welcoming for residents and visitors. These responsible investments, whether in day-to-day operations or long-term projects, will have a lasting impact for generations to come. Thank you to my fellow Council Members for their important conversations that led to this approved budget.”– Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa.
“The 2025 Budget demonstrates the Town’s commitment to careful planning and responsible spending, including maintaining essential services, enhancing infrastructure, or preserving our heritage. I want to thank the Town’s Finance Team for their dedication and guidance throughout this process.”– CAO Bruce Zvaniga.
Read the Final Approval of 2025 Budget Report.
For more information, please visit www.notl.com/council-government/property-taxes
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Media Contact:
Marah Minor, Communications Coordinator
905-468-3266 | communications@notl.com