Budget 2013 Approved - Find Out More
This week Toronto City Council approved the 2013 Operating Budget and the 2013-2022 Capital Budget that invests in transit and roads to address traffic congestion. Prior to the budget vote, I held a telephone town hall meeting to consult with our community and I thank the many of you who took part.The 2013 Budget is balanced and sets a plan for rapid debt repayment, but also invests in key areas that are important to our community. This is also the first budget since amalgamation that does not rely on the previous year's surplus to achieve balance.Here are some of the new investments in Toronto's 2013 Budget:Supporting Our Seniors: Many vulnerable seniors are struggling to make ends meet on their pensions and are in need of relief. The 2013 Budget raises the household salary threshold for the Property Tax Increase Cancellation Program for Seniors and People with Disabilities to $38,000 which will allow many more local residents to apply to cancel their property tax increases.Delivering Better Recreation: The 2013 Budget returns free adult programming at all priority community centres while investing to allow more program access across the City. This means adults will once again enjoy free programs at our local Driftwood and Oakdale Community Centres.Improving Student Nutrition: Students need a full stomach to have a clear mind during school. The 2013 Budget expands School Breakfast Programs across the City to help encourage students to come early to school and enjoy a nutritious and healthy breakfast.Other Highlights: In addition to the above, the 2013 Budget also puts new investments in EMS and Fire Services to keep our communities safer, the Toronto Parks and Trees Foundation to protect our beautiful natural spaces, creates more affordable daycare spaces, and other important areas such as the New Housing Stability Fund.Links to budget details:www.toronto.ca/budget2013Links to budget news stories:
The Toronto StarBudget approved: Toronto council saves firefighters, boosts breakfast program and child careThe Toronto SunToronto council passes budget with $12M more in spending addedThe Globe and MailCity budget adds $12-million in new spending