Muskoka’s bill for OPP services next year is going to be about $300,000 cheaper than expected.
That from a District of Muskoka staff report, which says 2023’s OPP billing statement places the cost at just over $15.5-million. Original estimates from district staff predicted an increase of $160,000, which is about $299,000 more than the actual bill.
That will help the District balance the budget sheet in other areas, says Suzanne Olimer, District Commissioner of Finance and Corporate Services. “Staff are continuing to prepare the draft 2023 budget and working towards meeting or exceeding the budget targets set out by District Council earlier this year. Savings in this area will be used to offset other areas of the budget.”
That amounts to a savings of $1.46 for property owners with a house valued at $300,000.
Olimer says that Muskoka’s share of the cost is down, “based on the number of properties served in Muskoka when compared to the number of properties served by the OPP across the province.”
Olimer notes that these figures might vary slightly, as the OPP has yet to provide 2022’s numbers for charges such as overtime, court security, contract enhancements, and prisoner transportation.