Russell Township council officially adopted its 2022 budget on November 1, and although the document hasn’t been posted to the township website just yet, there are some highlights that Mayor Pierre Leroux released in a statement November 2.
The most impact will be felt in a 2.5-per cent tax increase, representing a $44.53 increase for the average household that will generate a total of $356,997 over the year. One per cent of the increase will be saved for the future Russell Recreational Complex, and another one per cent will be dedicated to investing in the road system.
“Thanks to council and staff being open to compromise during budget discussions, we achieved a reasonable and balanced tax increase to address the community’s needs and wants for 2022,” Leroux said in a statement. “Overall, we are improving roads, sidewalks, pedestrian safety, as well as increasing cultural, recreational and environmental investments. By addressing asset management deficits, and continuing our financial plan for the recreation complex, your council is being proactive and planning for the long term.”
Township council set a target on the Strategic Plan in 2019 to reduce the Infrastructure Asset Replacement Deficit (IARD) by 20 per cent by 2022. With the approval of the 2022 budget, the IARD has been reduced by 40 per cent in total, meaning more roads will be paved and repaired.
The mayor and treasurer will be holding a live Q&A session on the township’s Facebook and Youtube pages on November 24 at 7:00 p.m. Residents are invited to ask questions through live chat or ahead of time by emailing info@russell.ca
