Clarington Council Requests Review of Municipal Fiscal Sustainability

The Municipality of Clarington has formally requested the Province of Ontario to review the financial sustainability of municipalities. This request was made through a resolution passed by the General Government Committee on March 4, 2024.

The resolution outlines several fiscal challenges faced by municipalities, including a reported shortfall of nearly $4 billion annually between municipal spending and provincial contributions. It highlights that municipal revenues, primarily from property taxes, do not align with economic growth or inflation.

The council's request emphasizes the need for increased investments in municipal infrastructure due to population and housing growth. Additionally, it notes the growing responsibilities municipalities face, such as addressing homelessness, supporting asylum seekers, and managing mental health issues.

The resolution was carried by the committee, and it calls for the province to consider these challenges in their fiscal planning.