Budget Committee of the Whole Meeting - June 23
- Jun 17
- 2 min read
Budget Committee of the Whole Meeting Wednesday June 23, 2026 at 1:30pm
Meeting Agenda: Meeting Agenda
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Agenda Items:
Richmond Hill staff have released the proposed 2027 Budget Strategy, outlining the financial challenges facing the City as it prepares next year's budget.
Key pressures include rising construction costs, inflation, tariffs, slower development activity, and changes to Provincial development charge rules.
Current planning assumptions include:
A preliminary property tax increase of 5.07%
Approximately 6% increases to water and wastewater rates
Approximately 10% increase to stormwater rates
Staff are also warning that development charge revenues are becoming less predictable due to slower growth and Provincial legislation. As a result, some growth-related infrastructure projects may need to be delayed or re-phased if funding is not available.
The report also notes that Richmond Hill faces growing infrastructure renewal needs and increasing pressure on reserve funds, prompting a proposed increase to the City's Capital Asset Sustainability Levy to help fund future infrastructure replacement.
The 2027 Budget will be released in early 2027, with final approval expected in January or February.
Most City fees, including many recreation and program fees, would increase by approximately 2% to keep pace with inflation.
The City is also proposing several new fees focused on cost recovery, including some development-related fees, road closure permits, EV charging fees, smoke and carbon monoxide alarm installations, and administrative fees for certain City services.
Staff estimate the changes will generate approximately $615,000 in additional annual revenue, helping offset rising operating costs and reducing pressure on property taxes.
The proposed fees will be considered by Council this summer and, if approved, would take effect January 1, 2027.
How to Share Your Feedback
If you have questions or concerns regarding any meeting agenda items, you are encouraged to share your thoughts.
You can send your written comments about agenda items by emailing clerks@richmondhill.ca. Please submit your comments must be submitted by 12 p.m. (noon) one business day before the meeting. All comments will be shared with Members of Council, treated as public information, and will be included on the public agenda posted to the City’s website.
Delegations - Speaking at the Meeting
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You can register by emailing clerks@richmondhill.ca or by using the on-line application form. You may speak in person, by video, or by phone. The Clerk’s Office will send you instructions on how to participate.