Budget 2025: Fourth Lowest Tax Bill Among UCPR Municipalities

March 11, 2025, Township of Champlain – At a Regular Council meeting on February 27, the Township of Champlain’s Council approved the 2025 municipal budget of $21.7 million with an operating budget of $15,977,871 and capital projects of $5,704,790.

• $98.03 for the municipal portion (6%)
• $35.62 for the United Counties’ portion (3.33%)
• No Increase in school taxes

Investing in Infrastructure and Financial Stability

As part of the 2025 budget, Champlain Township is increasing contributions to its reserves to address growing infrastructure repair and replacement needs. With aging roads, bridges, and facilities requiring significant investment, an additional $526,625 is being allocated to reserves, including $300,000 from the accumulated surplus. The remaining $226,625 accounts for 2.6% of the approved 6% tax rate increase, while an additional $94,323 is being added to the working fund reserve.

To support these investments and respond to ongoing financial pressures, Champlain Township will implement a 6% municipal tax rate increase in 2025, while still maintaining the 4th lowest tax bill among municipalities in the United Counties of Prescott and Russell (UCPR). This decision reflects the lasting impacts of inflation and the need to address critical infrastructure challenges while maintaining essential services.

“As one of the lowest-taxed municipalities in Prescott-Russell, we recognize the importance of balancing financial responsibility with the need to maintain essential services,” said Mayor Normand Riopel. “Council has made the difficult decision to move forward with this budget while also investing in the future. By increasing our reserves, we are preparing for growing infrastructure repair and replacement needs—critical steps to securing our township’s long-term sustainability and preserving a high quality of life for residents.”

While inflation rates are stabilizing, the cumulative effects of past increases continue to impact municipal budgets. The Township is also closely monitoring policing costs. Initially, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) estimated an increase of $188,000 for 2025. However, the province has stepped in to offset most of these costs, bringing the OPP estimated cost for 2025 (excluding court security) to $1,322,200. Looking ahead, the 2026 OPP billing will include the 2024 cost reconciliation for salaries, which could be significant. While the province has indicated a review of the billing model for 2026, the Township has proactively transferred $94,323 to the working reserve to help mitigate the impact of any potential increase.

Highlights of the 2025 Budget

• Grants to be distributed to community organizations ($70,000).

• Capital grants from the federal, provincial, and regional governments of $2.9M.

Roads and Public Works

• Roadwork:
  • Fournier St - Vankleek Hill ($154,000): 250 m fine grade and pave with new gutter curbs on both sides.
  • Elizabeth St - Vankleek Hill ($101,000): 178 m fine grade and pave with new east-side curbs.
  • Pendleton St - Vankleek Hill ($108,000): 265 m fine grade and pave with eight new catch basins from 62 Pendleton to the south side dead end.
  • Maplewood Dr - West Hawkesbury ($255,000): 100 m fine grade and pave.
• New UV system for the wastewater treatment plan ($440,000) and replacement of the SPS #2 force main following several breaks in 2023 and 2024 ($890,000)
• Sidewalk replacement on Bertha Street ($56,500) and new curb on Front Road near Bobois Street ($30,000)

Fire Department

• Certification of volunteer firefighters mandated by the province ($224,500)
• Two pumper trucks ($765,000 per truck)
• Extrication equipment for both fire stations ($140,000)

Library

• Roof rebuild ($30,000)

Parks and Recreation Department

• Plans for L’Orignal Community Centre ($60,000) – subject to change pending Council's decision following the presentation of a report on the new Parks and Recreation master plan.
• Bicycle repair stations at Miner Park, Mill Street Park, and L’Orignal Park to support tourism and park amenities ($10,850).
• Drainage project at Laurier Pilon Park to address water pooling and improve safety for families ($16,000).
• Several repairs at the Vankleek Hill Community Centre: foundation, installation of a dehumidification and cooling system in the lobby, duct cleaning, bleachers bench repairs, etc. ($59,200)
• Recreation department plans: Paint the Ice event and more park pop-up events ($1,250).

This year’s budget reflects the local government's commitment to maintaining and enhancing the services that are essential to our community's well-being. With investments in infrastructure, public safety, waste management, and recreational programs, the budget aims to ensure a high quality of life for all residents and promote sustainable growth for the future.