Understanding the Municipal Budget
The Village of Donalda’s municipal budget is a financial plan that guides how your local government delivers services, maintains infrastructure, and plans for the future. It reflects Council’s priorities and ensures that public funds are managed responsibly, transparently, and in the best interest of the community.
Each year, Council reviews and approves an operating budget and, where applicable, a capital budget.
What the Budget Covers
The municipal budget supports essential services and programs, including:
- Water, wastewater, and waste management services
- Roads, sidewalks, and infrastructure maintenance
- Emergency and fire services
- Parks, recreation, and community facilities
- Library, museum, and community support services
- Municipal administration and governance
These services help maintain safety, quality of life, and a strong sense of community in Donalda.
Where the Money Comes From
Municipal revenues typically include:
- Property taxes
- Provincial and federal grants
- User fees such as utilities, permits, and licenses
- Investment income and other sources
Council works to balance service needs with affordability for residents and businesses.
How Budget Decisions Are Made
Budget planning is a public process. Council considers:
- Community needs and service levels
- Legislative and regulatory responsibilities
- Long-term sustainability and infrastructure requirements
- Financial forecasts and reserve levels
- Public input, where applicable
Council aims to make informed decisions that support both current operations and long-term community stability.
Operating vs. Capital Budgets
Operating Budget
Covers day-to-day costs such as wages, utilities, insurance, maintenance, and contracted services.
Capital Budget
Covers larger, long-term investments such as infrastructure upgrades, facility improvements, and major equipment purchases.
Both budgets work together to ensure the Village continues to function effectively today while planning responsibly for the future.
Capital Planning and the Future
Capital planning focuses on maintaining and replacing infrastructure over time. These investments help ensure Donalda’s infrastructure remains safe, reliable, and cost-effective, while reducing the risk of unexpected costs.
Transparency and Accountability
The Village of Donalda is committed to openness and accountability. Approved budgets, audited financial statements, and related reports are available to the public, and Council meetings are open to residents who wish to learn more about municipal decision-making.
Municipal Budget – Frequently Asked Questions
What is a municipal budget?
A municipal budget is the Village’s annual financial plan. It outlines how money will be collected and how it will be spent to deliver services and support the community.
Why is a budget set every year?
The annual budget ensures essential services continue, infrastructure is maintained, and the Village meets its legal and financial responsibilities.
Why do property taxes change from year to year?
Property taxes may change due to inflation, infrastructure needs, changes in grant funding, utility costs, or property assessments. Council works to balance affordability with service delivery.
What are reserves and why are they important?
Reserves are funds set aside for future needs such as infrastructure replacement, emergencies, or major projects. They help reduce financial risk and sudden tax increases.
Does the Village carry debt?
If debt is used, it is carefully managed, approved by Council, and governed by provincial legislation. Borrowing is typically tied to long-term community assets.
Can residents provide input into the budget?
Yes. Residents are encouraged to attend Council meetings, review public documents, and share feedback with Council or Administration.
Municipal Budget – Myths vs. Facts
**Myth:** Property taxes only pay for administration.
**Fact:** Property taxes support many essential services including infrastructure, emergency services, utilities, and community facilities.
**Myth:** The Village can spend money however it wants.
**Fact:** Municipal spending is regulated by provincial legislation, Council-approved budgets, and financial policies, and is subject to audit.
**Myth:** Reserves mean the Village has extra money.
**Fact:** Reserves are savings designated for future infrastructure, emergencies, and long-term financial stability.
**Myth:** Capital projects take money away from daily services.
**Fact:** Operating and capital budgets serve different purposes, and both are necessary to maintain services and infrastructure.
**Myth:** Budget decisions are made behind closed doors.
**Fact:** Budget discussions and approvals occur at public Council meetings, and financial documents are available for public review.
**Myth:** Grants eliminate the need for local taxes.
**Fact:** Grants usually fund specific projects and often require local contributions; they do not replace the need for property taxes.
Learn More or Get Involved
Residents are encouraged to review budget documents, attend Council meetings, and stay informed about how municipal funds are used. Understanding the budget helps everyone appreciate how services are delivered and how Council plans for the future of Donalda.
Operating and Capital Budget Documents
2023 – 2027 Approved Capital Budget
2023 – 2027 Approved Capital Budget REVISED!
2023 Approved Operating Budget
2024-2028 Approved Capital Budget
2024 Approved Operating Budget