On Tuesday, December 19, Ville de Saint-Zotique unveiled its budget for 2024, reaffirming its commitment to intergenerational equity and financial stability. To maintain a balanced budget, tax bills for municipal services will increase by 7.9% for an average residence valued at around $400,000.

In light of the current economic challenges, the municipality has carefully developed a budget plan aimed at minimizing the impact on citizens while preserving the quality of municipal services.

The basic property tax rate will rise from $0.3473/100 of assessment to $0.3680/100 of assessment, an increase of 2 cents. In addition, rates will increase by $78.01 per dwelling unit (+11.3%).

Main budget variations

Adjustments include targeted increases in debt servicing (+$338,900), the MRC's share (+$43,800) and the SQ's share (+$108,300). These decisions, taken with care, are aimed at ensuring the sustainability of infrastructures and the continuity of essential services.

Comparison with other municipalities

Saint-Zotique's base rates remain among the lowest, at $0.368/$100 of assessment, at the minimum of the normal range of comparative prime rates in similar cities ($0.3675/$100 of assessment to $0.4854/$100 of assessment).

Priority to intergenerational equity

In the face of inflation, the city has chosen not to use its accumulated surplus, demonstrating its commitment to intergenerational equity. Despite the challenges, the balanced budget focuses on preserving services while anticipating future needs.

Saint-Zotique mayor Yvon Chiasson states: "Over the past ten years, we have maintained an average annual tax rate increase of 2.7%.This testifies to our commitment to fiscal stability, with periods of moderation, explaining the recent adjustment needed in response to the recession."

Strategic investments for the future

The City is planning strategic investments in infrastructure projects, including the extension of 20th Street, safety measures on Route 338, the development of Quatre-saisons Park, and repairs to essential assets.These initiatives reinforce our commitment to citizen well-being and sustainable development.

Transition to sustainable waste management

Saint-Zotique is moving towards more sustainable waste management with reorganized household collections and extended sorting incentives. Household collections will be every two weeks on an annual basis. Through this initiative, citizens will benefit from a "government rebate", contributing to a lower overall tax rate and a more environmentally-friendly community.

With this balanced budget and thoughtful investments, Ville de Saint-Zotique is committed to ensuring a prosperous future while respecting the needs and aspirations of every generation.