Media Release – 2017 Budget

The District of Thunder Bay Social Services Administration Board (TBDSSAB) Announces Approval of 2017 Budget

February 7, 2017 – The District of Thunder Bay Social Services Administration Board (TBDSSAB) approved the 2017 operating budget totaling $99,568,400, an increase of $9,930,300 or 11% over 2016. The increase is due primarily to new Federal/Provincial funding for Affordable Housing programs. As well, the budget includes increases to financial assistance entitlements to Ontario Works clients and increased costs associated with providing social housing in the District of Thunder Bay.

The money will be used to assist people throughout the District of Thunder Bay. Overall, 65% of the budget will be allocated as direct transfer payments to individuals and families as well as funded agencies that provide social services consistent with TBDSSAB’s legislated service requirements through Ontario Works, Child Care fee subsidy, Social Housing, and Homelessness Prevention programs.

In addition, the Board approved a Capital budget totaling $3,604,000, and includes 150 projects to maintain TBDSSAB capital infrastructure.

A total of 66% of TBDSSAB’s funding comes from the Provincial and Federal levels of government. An additional 21% of the budget is acquired through a levy to the 15 municipalities located in the District of Thunder Bay, 2.6% from the levy for unincorporated territories and 10.8% from tenant rent payments. The remaining 1% is derived mainly from solar power projects and cell tower leases.

Although the total operating budget for 2017 will increase by 11% over 2016, the portion that will be financed from the levy to municipalities will decrease by 2.1%. The apportionment of the 2017 levy is calculated using weighted assessment. Therefore, the change in levy experienced by each municipality will depend on weighted assessment changes experienced by each community relative to the other 14 communities.

The TBDSSAB employs nearly 180 people who work in the delivery and administration of provincially and federally-mandated programs and services. The Board is comprised of 12 members who represent the 15 municipalities and the unincorporated territories. Eleven members are appointed from the councils of member municipalities and the member representing the unincorporated territories is elected by the residents of those areas.

Contact: Brook Latimer Communications & Engagement Officer
807-766-2111 ex. 4219 or Cell 807-633-5193