Some residents in the Town of Paradise will see a slight increase in their taxes in the new year due to an increase in assessed property values..

Council tabled their 2024 budget on Thursday evening.

The residential mil rate will remain unchanged at 7.4, but some residents may see a tax increase of about $135 given the increased values. Water and sewer fees are unchanged.

Recognizing that many are struggling to keep up with costs, the town is offering a new discount to lower-income households, and will continue to offer a seniors’ discount to homeowners aged 60 and older.

The town announced a number of transportation upgrades, including expanded Metrobus services. Starting in January, Metrobus will operate an extra morning and evening run during the week and will introduce service on Saturdays.

A portion of funding earmarked for road infrastructure will be put towards roadwork on Topsail Road and Kenmount Road.

The town will take on a major infrastructure project to replace lift station 10 and will receive help from both levels of government to do so. Paradise will be taking out a loan worth $12 million in order to cover their share of $19.6 million.

Councillor Patrick Martin says despite the loan, they will remain in a good spot financially with one of the lowest debt-servicing ratios in the province.

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