Puslinch Township seeking comments on user fees, charges
PUSLINCH – Are building permits too high? Does it cost too much to rent the Puslinch Community Centre?
Should taxpayers cover the cost or should those using a service pay more?
The township is inviting residents, businesses and community members to provide feedback on the proposed 2027 user fees and charges as one of the first steps in developing the municipal budget.
User fees allow the township to collect revenue directly from those who use or benefit from specific services, helping to offset the costs of providing those services rather than relying solely on property tax reveue.
User fees and charges apply to a range of township services, including recreational facility rentals, building permits, planning and development applications, dog and kennel licensing, lottery licensing, and open air burn permits.
“Public input is an important part of council’s decision-making process,” said Mayor James Seeley in a press release.
User fees are not intended to cover the full cost of a service but rather operate as a co-payment system, Seeley said.
“This approach helps balance affordability for users with fairness to the broader community and supports the long-term financial sustainability of township services,” Seeley continued.
“I encourage residents to review the proposed fees and provide their feedback as we begin the 2027 budget process.”
The 2027 User Fees and Charges Engagement Survey will be available on EngagePuslinch.ca until Sept. 28 at 12pm.
The township will also hold a public information meeting on Sept. 16, at 6:30pm at the municipal office, located at 7404 Wellington Road 34, with an option to participate electronically through Zoom.
The meeting will provide an opportunity for the public to learn what is proposed, ask questions and provide comments directly to council regarding the proposed 2027 user fees and charges.
The township encourages everyone to review the proposed fees and participate in the survey.
Feedback received through the engagement process will help inform council’s consideration of the 2027 user fees and charges bylaw, officials state.
