City of Hamilton seeking public feedback on 2024 budget process

The City of Hamilton is encouraging the public to help shape its 2024 budget.

Residents will have the opportunity to get involved in the city’s latest delegation day, which is scheduled for Jan. 16.

The meeting offers the public a chance to voice their thoughts on how their hard-earned tax dollars are spent.

Members from the community will have to apply ahead of time if they’re interested in sharing their thoughts, whether in written form, virtually or in person. Applications are due Jan. 15.
Additionally, there is the option to provide a video delegation, which is due Jan. 12.

At the last meeting, which was held in November, housing played a central focus.

Many residents voiced concerns around homelessness in the city and wanting more support for renters.

This series of public delegations comes ahead of the city’s budget approval deadline, which is set for Feb. 15.

READ MORE: City of Hamilton staff report estimates tax increase of 14%

Earlier this year, the city of Hamilton released a report estimating that next year’s municipal tax increase could be as much as 14.2 per cent.

The figures mark a big increase compared to last year’s tax increase of 5.8 per cent.

“Hamilton is facing many budget pressures and input from the community is critical to making sure our resources are deployed to have the best impact for our city,” said Mayor Andrea Horwath.

“I encourage Hamiltonians who live or work here to participate in this year’s budget process through public delegations.”

The city says its budget is shaped by council priorities around sustainability, safety, responsiveness and transparency.

For more information on getting involved in the city’s budget process, visit its website.

READ MORE: Hamilton’s Chief of Police defends request for $20M budget increase