The proposed capital budget size presents an increase of approximately $7 million compared to 2024. Pictured: Niagara-on-the-Lake Council. Photo Credit: Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Budget season is in full swing and Niagara municipalities are preparing their fiscal blueprint for the coming year. In the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Councillors are currently debating a $17.2 million capital budget for 2025.
The proposed capital budget size presents an increase of approximately $7 million compared to 2024. More than half of the capital budget could be spent on a culverts renovation initiative and four road projects.
The most notable items on the capital budget include a $3.1 million reconstruction project for Line 2 Road, as well as a $3 million update to Mississauga Street, and a $1.95 million initiative to install street lighting, new sewers and a water lane, also on Mississauga Street. The proposal would also dedicate $910,000 for culverts on Line 2 Road, $400,000 to replace the culverts on McNabb Road, as well as $350,000 to resurface Queen’s Parade Road.
Accumulatively, these projects would account for roughly 55 per cent of the capital budget, which translates to $9.5 million.
The remainder of the capital budget would be dedicated to other projects, such as smaller road reconstructions and parking lot repairs, municipal building renovations, as well as council chamber infrastructure and technology upgrades. They would also include a new fire generator, for training purposes, maintenance tool upgrades, pool, park and playground equipment, as well as updated PPE for parking enforcement staff and by-law officers.
While there is a strong understanding of the growing need to upgrade essential infrastructure, council has expressed concern about how the projects will be financed. Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa shared his reservations about increasing the Town’s debt. Deputy Lord Mayor Erwin Wiens explained how he dislikes a lot of the available options, whether it be raising taxes or delaying the completion of pertinent projects.
Council is pondering the possibility of delaying the resurfacing of Queen’s Parade Road to help offset some of the debt. Municipal staff have been asked to provide input.
It has already been agreed to by the Town that $3.1 million in reserve funds will be applied to help cover the costs of some of the projects. In addition, Town Corporate Service Director Kyle Freeborn has confirmed that the two culvert replacements on Line 2 Road and McNabb Road will be accounted for through an increase in the debt. In addition to reserves and debt, he said that government grants and development charges will also help to cover the cost of the capital budget.
According to Freeborn, upon considering the needs of facilities, fleet, roads, culverts and bridges, the Niagara-on-the-Lake infrastructure deficit is currently about $34.1 million.
Councillors are expected to finish their discussions regarding the capital budget on Oct. 30 and conclude their broader budget deliberations no later than December 10th.
Those interested in learning more about the proposed 2025 Niagara-on-the-Lake Capital Budget can do so at the following link: 2025 Draft Capital Budget.
Nick Redekop completed his Honours Bachelor of Arts Degree in Labour Studies at Brock University. He has previously served in municipal and federal politics. In his free time, Nick enjoys following sports, taking part in outdoor activities, and reading biographies. Nick resides in Niagara Falls
