November 30, 2023 – Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown unveiled the city’s proposed 2024 budget called “Building the Brampton Advantage” at a press conference on Wednesday, November 29, 2023. This marks his first budget presentation under the newly enacted provincial legislation, the Strong Mayors, Building Homes Act, 2022.
Lowest Tax Increase in the GTA
A standout feature of the budget is the proposed tax increase of just 1.9% on the City portion, significantly below the September 2023 inflation rate of 3.8%. This places Brampton with the lowest tax increase in the Greater Toronto Area, reinforcing Mayor Brown’s continued dedication to affordability for residents.
Record Investments and Community Engagement
The budget allocates $1.5 billion, including the largest-ever contribution of $139 million to reserves. This funding will sustain and enhance vital infrastructure, such as City buses, roads, and recreation centers. The budget reflects extensive community engagement, with over 5000 residents participating in pre-budget town halls, coffee chats, and a business roundtable.
Strategic Investments in Transit, Health Care, and Recreation
Health care initiatives receive a boost with a 1% hospital levy, supporting the construction of a second hospital and a new cancer care center, as well a support for a new medical school.
This is an unprecedented boost to public transit in Brampton.
Mayor Patrick Brown
Transit services see enhancements through a $78.4 million investment in buses and an expansion of the Brampton Transit Zum service. Mayor Brown stated “One of our most significant investments in this year’s budget is into public transit. We are adding a record 136 new transit operators and more than 108,000 service hours. This is an unprecedented boost to public transit in Brampton.”
Recreational projects, including the construction of the Embleton Community Centre, Howden Recreation Centre, and various sports facility enhancements, reflect the city’s commitment to providing diverse recreational opportunities. This includes new cricket infrastructure and programming, pickleball courts, and more.
Environmental Stewardship
The budget underscores the city’s commitment to the environment with an $87.3 million allocation for Riverwalk Phase One, focusing on flood protection. Additional funds support drainage programs, erosion control, energy efficiency, and $100,000 to enhance community gardens across the city.
More Information and Next Steps
Residents can easily access the full proposed budget on the City’s website, with alternate format requests welcomed at [email protected].
The press conference can be viewed here.
Public delegations and Council discussions will begin on Tuesday, December 5, with final budget approval planned for December 13, 2023.
Expressing enthusiasm, Mayor Brown stated, “I am thrilled to unveil the 2024 budget—a strategic blueprint for the Brampton advantage. With record contributions to reserves and the lowest tax increase in the GTA, this budget reflects our commitment to inclusive growth and a resilient community. Your feedback is crucial as we finalize this budget, ensuring a prosperous future for every Brampton resident.”
