Guelph 2024 budget proposes 10.32 per cent tax increase

The proposed budget for the City of Guelph could see a double digit tax hike for residents.

The 10.32 per cent increase is equivalent to a monthly increase of $37.66. It is the highest increase the city has seen in decades. Over the next few years, the city could see taxes continue to rise by 9.38 per cent in 2025 and 8.67 in 2026. The yearly increase would be assessed every year.

Guelph Mayor Cam Guthie noted one of the biggest was the provincial funding requirement for homelessness, housing and Guelph General Hospital. The requirement, which he calls “the Pill” is $9,969,945, or an increase of 3.37 per cent.

“The 13 of us have to row together in this boat to try and figure out as best we can about affordability for our community in regards to this issue,” said Guthrie.

A motion proposed by Ward 2 Councillor Rodrigo Coller was passed to hold a special workshop on November 22 with the goal of reducing the proposed increase.

Guelph will vote on amendments to the budget on November 29.