Budget FAQs

Each year, the Town of Essex completes an annual budget process to create create a budget that supports the strategic priorities set-out by Council, and enhances the quality of life for residents. Learn about budget basics and answers to frequently asked questions below.

1. What is a budget?

A budget is a document that details all of the revenue (money in) that will be received as well as expenses (money out) that will be paid.

The Town’s budget is broken down into two sections. The first being the “Operating Budget” which identifies the revenues and expenses that fund day-to-day services. The second being the “Capital Budget” which identifies larger-scale works to Town Infrastructure and how the town plans to fund them.

2. Why does the Town of Essex prepare a budget?

The Ontario Municipal Act requires every Ontario municipality to prepare and approve a budget each year.

Sections of this Act stipulate that the Town is required to balance the budget and to allocate a set amount of funding to service areas in order to maintain service levels. The Town cannot budget for deficits.

3. Where do my tax dollars go?

For every dollar you pay, the Town only retains .59 cents. The remainder is remitted to the County and School Boards.

The Town uses this to fund Capital Projects and Services which benefit the community as a whole. The Town provides numerous services to residents. Some of these include; animal control, garbage collection, parks and arena facilities, building services, roadway maintenance and water and sewer operations to name a few.

Capital Projects occur annually and include items such as new splashpads, streetscapes. and road renewals. To see some of the Town’s recent projects please see the interactive map.