Essex town councillors went into their budget process with an eye on keeping to a zero per cent increase this year, and they did it.
Councillors approved its 2020 budget in principle at a special meeting Monday with no increase in the municipal property tax rate and more than $25 million in capital spending.
"We've had a good amount of growth in our community over the past few years and keeping tax rates low will continue to make our town an attractive place," said Mayor Larry Snively.
That includes $4.5 million to improve streetscapes in Harrow and Essex Centre, $2.7 million for a new fire hall, and $1.7 million for road work.
New washrooms at the Essex Centre Splash Pad and a new roof for the Harrow and Colchester South Community Centre also got the nod.
A combination of property tax revenue, grants, long-term debt, user rates, and budgetary reserves will fund capital projects. Some funding was also carried forward from previous years.
"The values we heard from the community are directly reflected in this year's budget," said Treasurer Jeffrey Morrison. "As a corporation, we have a solid financial foundation to carry out the goals of council and meet the needs of our citizens."
The town does not plan to hire any part- or full-time staff this year.
Council will formally adopt the budget at its meeting on February 18.