The Town of Castor is freezing tax rates in 2025.
After discussion during the May 12 council meeting, council ultimately approved a zero per cent increase to the town's mill rate.
According to Town of Castor Chief Administrative Officer Donna Rowland, expenses for 2025 have been held at as close to 2024 levels as possible.
Despite a reprieve on the municipal portion of residents' tax bills, Mayor Richard Elhard cautions that people should still brace for an increased tax bill in 2025.
Elhard notes that between town assessments increasing and the province increasing the education requisition, "taxes are still going up a bit."
"I think people have to recognize what people are paying for houses these days," said Coun. Don Sisson, agreeing with Elhard's caution.
The operating budget of the town is set at $4.4 million, with a capital budget of $721,000.
Revenues from sources other than property taxes are estimated at just over $2.9 million, with the balance needing to be made up with tax revenue.
The $4.4 million includes education requisitions, which have increased to just under $242,000, and just over $41,000 in Seniors' funding.
"I'd like to see us have more of a cushion," said Elhard. "I really would. I'm not comfortable with a zero ... I worry about down the road."
Elhard mentioned during the meeting that the town-owned equipment is all getting older and therefore it is either going to have to be replaced or maintenance costs are going to go up.
Not all councillors saw his perspective.
"I think it's the wrong time to go up when everything else is going up," said Coun. Kevin McDougall.
Rowland noted that a one per cent increase in taxes would generate around $11,000 in additional revenue for the municipality.
"One per cent won't create a slush fund," said Rowland.
Coun. McDougall motioned to approve the 2025 budget with a zero increase for 2025. The motion passed with Mayor Elhard and Deputy Mayor Kilner opposed.
The Tax Bylaw, approving taxation for 2025, passed all three readings with no dissent, confirming the 2025 tax freeze.
