Craig Dyer, Commissioner, Corporate Services/Chief Financial Officer, provided a presentation to introduce the 2024 Budget. A copy of the presentation is appended to the original minutes.
In response to a Committee question, C. Dyer mentioned that the target balance in the rate stabilization reserve is $15 million, proposing to use $5.58 million from this fund in the 2024 budget.
C. Dyer continued the presentation noting that the fees and charges associated with different areas will be presented with the various areas. Furthermore, a fees and charges by-law based on those fees will be presented on the final budget day. He indicated that the information presented encompasses all services directly offered by the Region, with additional information from the Waterloo Regional Police Services (WRPS), to be added as it becomes available. C. Dyer noted that a Board meeting and public input session is scheduled for WRPS. December 13, 2023 is the approved schedule from Council and is what staff are working towards
C. Dyer highlighted the $3.3 million in reductions that have been identified by staff, including new revenue, staffing decisions, and efficiency improvements. He also mentioned that service level expansions approved by Council in 2023 are incorporated into the 2024 budget. Any service expansions proposed by staff will require Committee approval during the budget process.
In response to a question from the Committee, Rod Regier, Commissioner, Planning, Development & Legislative Services, explained that airport resources and economic development files are included in the Housing for All strategic priority due to their impact on economic resilience and the housing market. Bruce Lauckner, Chief Administrative Officer, added that this approach supports the development of shovel-ready lands, extending beyond affordable housing.
Jennifer Rose, Commissioner of Engineering and Environmental Services, continued the presentation, focusing on how the 2024 budget supports the strategic priority of Climate Aligned Growth. She highlighted water and wastewater services, noting that staff recommend the inclusion of a health and safety specialist, and suggested no change to wholesale water rates in the 2024 budget.
In response to a question from the Committee, Mari MacNeil, Director, Water & Wastewater Services, mentioned staff's exploration of thermal capturing at wastewater treatment plants for electricity savings.
Cheryl Braan, Director, Corporate Finance, continued the presentation and provided an overview of the 10 year capital forecast and debt for water and wastewater.
C. Dyer indicated that staff are currently working on background research for the next development charge study, with a report expected in 2024. This study considers important factors, notwithstanding Bill 23. Projections for the next five years are based on the best available information, but they will be recalibrated as needed over the next 12-18 months due to changing circumstances.
J. Rose proceeded with the presentation, emphasizing the 2024 waste management initiatives aligned with the Climate Aligned Growth strategic priority. These include the Waste Management Master Plan and a transformation of the Waterloo public drop-off.
Mathieu Goetzke, Commissioner of Transportation Services, delivered an overview of the transportation initiatives featured in the 2024 budget, in alignment with the Climate Aligned Growth strategic initiative. These initiatives encompass the Integrated Mobility Plan and Corridor Design Guidelines. Members of the Committee enquired about enhancing the accessibility on pedestrian buttons at crosswalks, further resources regarding trees on Regional roads, and tree planting.
M. Goetzke continued the presentation and provided an overview on transit initiatives including fleet expansion, electrification of the fleet, and work on the Kitchener Central Station. C. Braan highlighted that the $4.8 million increase in transit operating costs is primarily driven by inflation and expansion, including service expansions from 2023, alongside some improved revenue projections.
Members of the Committee enquired about increased service for mobility plus, LRT frequency during special events, and transit expansion.
The Committee recessed at 4:15pm and reconvened at 4:24pm.
M. Harris assumed the Chair.
Rod Regier, Commissioner of Planning, Development & Legislative Services, continued the presentation, underscoring collaborative efforts with partners and area municipalities pertaining to Transform WR. He mentioned that the budget includes funding for the establishment of a Home Energy Retrofit Pilot Program aimed at assisting homeowners in making energy-efficient upgrades. C. Braan clarified that the primary funding source for this program will be from FCM, with the anticipated 2024 costs estimated at approximately $2 million.