Brandon City Council Approves 1.92% Increase In Municipal Taxes For 2022

– After two days of budget deliberations, Brandon City Council has approved a $225 million-dollar budget, representing a municipal tax increase of 1.92% for 2022.

Council debated several amendments with all areas of municipal spending being carefully considered for either augmented financial support or spending reductions.

Council was also able to initiate numerous enhancements to the budget that will be of benefit to our residents. A few examples include:

• Drainage improvements
• $100,000 toward lead pipe replacement program
• Increased recreational programs including the construction of two new playgrounds
• Downtown Improvements
• Progress on the outdoor sports complex
• Improvements to Brandon’s Community Sportsplex
• Improvements to the water treatment plant

“This was the most challenging of the past 8 budgets I’ve worked with and I’m extremely proud of the work of our entire Council and administrative team,” notes Mayor Rick Chrest. “We have reduced the proposed tax increase to 1.92%, which is less than half of current inflation, while maintaining or enhancing City services. We also commenced the largest era of City capital investment in our history. I always cherish the very collegial, collaborative and progressive approach of our Council, and the constructive results we have achieved in the face of difficult tasks.”

The Council approved budget will now proceed to the public hearing stage, a date for which will be determined in the spring.