Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Municipality prepare its budget?

Clarington has six departments overseen by the Chief Administrative Office, including Public Works, Emergency and Fire Services, Legislative Services, Community Services, Planning and Development Services, and Financial Services. Each department prepares a budget by looking back at the past year's spending and forecasting future costs. They work to ensure that residents will enjoy either the same level of service, and in some cases, see enhanced services.

What is the operating budget?

The operating budget outlines Clarington's spending plan for the upcoming year and is based on Council's goals and priorities. This budget is prepared by each Municipal department and reflects that area of responsibility. It outlines the day-to-day cost of fire services, programs, facilities, parks, arenas, road maintenance, libraries and much more. It includes staffing, utilities, repairs and maintenance, fuel, and more.

What is the capital budget?

The capital budget outlines the Municipality's plan for long-term projects, including infrastructure-related work like road reconstruction, park improvements, fleet (i.e. fire trucks, snowplows), sidewalks and public buildings. These will provide or support services in the future.

How does Council decide on the budget?

Council attends a special General Government Committee meeting dedicated solely to the budget. Councillors review the budget and discuss their priorities to ensure that the budget supports Council's vision for the upcoming year. Once Council reaches a consensus, the budget is officially ratified and approved at a Council meeting.

If there is a budget surplus, where does the money go?

Municipal budgets are provincially legislated to be balanced. Legislation allows Municipalities to allocate any surplus money at the end of each fiscal year to reserve funds. Clarington puts surplus funds in the Rate Stabilization Reserve Fund to offset any future deficits and help even out any tax rate increases.

How is my tax money spent?

Council sets out priorities through the budget, and tax dollars are spent on those items. Some of the priorities are fire protection, road maintenance and repair, parks, facilities, programs, libraries, municipal law enforcement, long-term capital projects, and much more.

How are home values assessed?

The Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) is responsible for assessing and classifying more than five million properties in Ontario. Every year, MPAC provides municipalities with an assessment roll to be used for taxation purposes. If you have questions about your assessment, call MPAC at 1-866-296-6722 or visit the MPAC website. For property-specific inquiries, visit the About My Property section to view information on your property, access your property assessment notice, and compare your property to others. If you disagree with your assessment, you can file a Request for Reconsideration (deadlines applicable).

How are my taxes calculated?

Your tax bill is calculated by multiplying your property's assessed value by the tax rates determined by the municipality, the region, and province. Please see understanding your tax bill for more details.