The City of Pembroke has officially adopted its 2025 budget during the February 18 council meeting. After four days of discussions and a public budget meeting, the Finance and Administration Committee finalized the budget, which includes an 8.98% levy increase and an 8.92% municipal tax rate increase. As a single-tier municipality, these changes affect Pembroke residents, including the cost of County of Renfrew services.
While home prices have risen sharply in recent years, Pembroke property taxes remain based on a property’s 2016 value, as assessed by the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC). For example, a residential property with a 2016 assessment of $185,000 will see a $277 increase in property taxes in 2025.
The 2025 budget prioritizes essential investments in City services, such as reopening the Kinsmen Pool, launching a new on-demand transit system in the summer, advancing economic development, and supporting the recreation master plan. Mayor Ron Gervais expressed gratitude to staff and council for their hard work on a budget that addresses both current and future community needs, including infrastructure and facility improvements.
The budget allocates $22.4 million for capital projects, including road work, sidewalk repairs, and continued upgrades to the City’s water and sewer systems. Notable infrastructure projects for 2025 include the $3.6 million Isabella Phase 2 reconstruction, the $498,000 road resurfacing of several streets, and the $122,000 replacement of sidewalks on Belmont Avenue.
Water and sewer rates will also rise in 2025 to support ongoing operations and maintenance, with increases recommended by a 2020 financial plan. Water and sewer rates will go up by an average of $81 per year for residential taxpayers. As a result, the overall impact on the average household will be an additional $357 annually, or $29.75 per month.
(Written by: Emma Butler)