Mayor Frank Scarpitti and members of Markham Council on October 28, 2024. (from left to right: Ward 1 Councillor Keith Irish; Ward 2 Councillor Ritch Lau; Ward 3 Councillor Reid McAlpine; Ward 4 Councillor Karen Rea; Mayor Frank Scarpitti; Regional Councillor Jim Jones; Ward 5 Councillor Andrew Keyes; Ward 6 Councillor Amanda Yeung Collucci; Ward 7 Councillor Juanita Nathan; Ward 8 Councillor Isa Lee)

By Hasini Vijay Inbasri

Markham’s Budget 2025, titled “A Markham Milestone,” has been officially adopted by Mayor Frank Scarpitti around October 28, 2024, totalling an impressive $674.7 million. This comprehensive financial plan, presented by Mayor Frank Scarpitti, aims to balance community development with fiscal responsibility. Residents will start to see a 3.88% increase in property taxes, translating to an additional $53.54 for the average Markham home. Despite this increase, Markham maintains the lowest 20-year average property tax increase in Greater Toronto.

Markham has a large budget of $296.2 million to cover everyday services and operations, mainly funded by property taxes. To help with various city projects and services, $178.9 million is set aside for 231 different initiatives. For building new infrastructure, about $74.4 million will be used for things like new storm sewers, water mains, roads, parks, green spaces, pedestrian crossings, and traffic signals. Additionally, $104.5 million will go toward repairing and maintaining existing community facilities, including roads, recreational areas, libraries, and cultural spaces. There will also be a 3.05% increase in water rates, which will cost the average household in Markham an extra $31.51 per year. This increase is largely due to the cost of purchasing water from the City of Toronto through the York Region.

Fig: Markham operating budget and capital budget planned for 2025 with high level split of the capital budget.

On the other hand, Markham is also taking important steps to ensure that the community grows safely and effectively. They are investing money in various infrastructure projects to create complete and connected neighbourhoods. This includes $43.7 million to build storm sewers and water mains on Victoria Square Boulevard and Woodbine Avenue, which will help manage water flow and ensure clean water access. Additionally, $8.4 million is allocated for creating sidewalks, making it safer for people to walk around. They also plan to spend $5.3 million on widening and building new roads for better traffic flow and $3.1 million for installing traffic signals and pedestrian crossings, which will improve safety for those crossing the street. Furthermore, $3 million is dedicated to creating new parks in several locations, providing residents with more green spaces to enjoy. Lastly, $600,000 will go toward developing new trails in Markham Centre, encouraging outdoor activities and connecting different parts of the city.

To make sure Markham stays strong and prepared for the future, the city has set aside $104.5 million in its 2025 budget to keep our facilities in good shape, adapt to climate changes, and work towards our goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. One of the important projects is the $22.4 million investment in flood control for Markham Village, which will help protect homes and businesses from flooding. There’s also $10.4 million earmarked for resurfacing roads and repairing curbs, sidewalks, and parking lots, making our streets safer and more pleasant to use. To improve our water system, another $10.4 million will go towards fixing old cast iron water pipes, ensuring we have clean and reliable water.  Additionally, $9.0 million is dedicated to enhancing recreational spaces, libraries, and cultural facilities, giving residents more access to community activities. Markham is also tackling erosion issues on Mill Street with a $7.0 million restoration project. Parks are set to receive $4.1 million for maintenance and upgrades to playgrounds and sports courts, making them enjoyable for families. For our city buildings, $1.4 million is going towards roof repairs, keeping our facilities safe and efficient. Finally, with $1.0 million for the Trees for Tomorrow program, we’re investing in our green spaces and enhancing our tree canopy. These projects reflect Markham’s commitment to a vibrant, well-maintained community that prioritizes sustainability and resilience for every citizen in Markham.

Mayor Scarpitti emphasized that this budget continues Markham’s tradition of responsible fiscal management while investing in the community’s future. The city aims to maintain its position as a leader in providing high-quality services while keeping tax increases manageable for residents. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about how their tax dollars are being used through various resources available on the City of Markham’s website, including detailed budget documents and annual reports to be readily prepared for our upcoming 2025 year!

Works Cited

“Markham – City Adopts Budget 2025.” Municipal Information Network, 29 November 2024, https://municipalinfonet.com/article/municipal/region/ontario/27/1114278/markhamnovember-29-2024-city-adopts-budget-2025.html. Accessed 1 December 2024.

“Property Tax & Water Budgets and Annual Reports.” City of Markham, https://www.markham.ca/about-city-markham/city-hall/property-tax-water-budgets-and-annual-reports. Accessed 1 December 2024.

Urosevic, Alex. “Markham 2025 budget comes with a 3.88% property tax increase.” York Region News, 29 November 2024, https://www.yorkregion.com/news/council/markham-residents-face-a-3-88-property-tax-increase-under-citys-2025-budget/article_fb7fef92-0fce-5187-97ef-aeb3a473a420.html. Accessed 1 December 2024.