Rosemère Charts a “Naturally Responsible” Path with 2025 Budget

During a special meeting on December 9, 2024, Rosemère’s Mayor Eric Westram and Councillor Marie-Élaine Pitre presented the municipality’s 2025 budget. Approved by Town Council, the budget addresses significant challenges, including the tax transfer associated with the 2024-2026 assessment roll and an increase in quota-shares for organizations connected to the town. It also marks the first budget prepared following the adoption of the 2024-2030 Strategic Plan, aligning financial decisions with the plan’s objectives.
Mayor Westram emphasized that the budget prioritizes sound financial management while maintaining quality services for residents. He highlighted Rosemère’s vision of fostering a responsible and flourishing community, rooted in conscientious growth and environmental stewardship. The 2025 operating budget totals $43,011,100 and includes a 3% increase in general taxes and charges for the average residential tax bill. Additionally, the budget introduces a $0.03 per $100 of assessment contribution to the residential infrastructure fund and reflects a 0.5% increase in the public transit tax due to a 6% rise in the quota-share remitted to the ARTM.
The priorities outlined in the budget reflect a focus on responsible financial decisions, balancing ambition with the capacity of Rosemère’s residents to pay. Each measure was conceived with a long-term perspective to maintain the town’s financial health while meeting present and future needs. Among the initiatives included in the budget are the allocation of $100,000 annually to a climate resilience fund, the adoption of a five-year capital planning framework to ensure improved long-term planning, and the implementation of a tax strategy to offset the impact of the tax transfer. Additional measures include the use of financial reserves to stabilize expenditures, a growth strategy for the infrastructure tax to manage debt, and a detailed analysis of charges designed to encourage eco-responsible behaviors.
The Five-Year Capital Plan, spanning 2025 to 2029, outlines $126.9 million in investments, with 58% funded through non-debt means such as subsidies, third-party contributions, working capital, and the parks fund. These investments focus on updating the water treatment and supply system, upgrading street infrastructure, and adapting municipal buildings for improved usability. The 2025 operating budget also includes key projects aligned with the Strategic Plan. These include developing the employer brand to attract and retain talent, creating a comprehensive climate change adaptation and mitigation plan, implementing an urban forestry plan, continuing the MADA-families initiative to support seniors and families, establishing an online consultation platform to enhance citizen engagement, and conducting detailed planning for the regional commercial hub to adapt and consolidate the town’s territory.
Rosemère’s 2025 budget reflects the town’s commitment to ensuring long-term financial stability while addressing immediate needs and future aspirations. The decisions and initiatives incorporated into this budget illustrate a balance between responsible governance and the municipality’s vision for conscientious growth and sustainability.