Program Review Supports a Proactive Approach to Managing City's Future
Vaughan Council continues to implement a proactive and forward-looking approach to budget planning by incorporating a Program Review into the City’s 2013-2016 budget guidelines. A Program Review has been conducted and operational reviews of selected programs have been identified to ensure that the City continues to deliver high quality services and value for the property tax dollar.
“Vaughan is committed to providing first-rate services that enhance and protect the quality of life of our residents while respecting their hard-earned tax dollars,” said Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua. “Independent survey results show that we are delivering excellent community services and programs. As the City moves forward, initiatives such as the Program Review will help shape Vaughan’s sustainable future.”
“Vaughan is committed to providing first-rate services that enhance and protect the quality of life of our residents while respecting their hard-earned tax dollars,” said Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua. “Independent survey results show that we are delivering excellent community services and programs. As the City moves forward, initiatives such as the Program Review will help shape Vaughan’s sustainable future.”
A 2012 Ipsos Reid Citizen Survey for Vaughan found 83 per cent of polled residents believe they receive good value for their tax dollars. By undertaking its own Program Review, the City will continue to monitor program performance while identifying new efficiencies.
The review is part of an ongoing process focused on re-evaluating services provided as a municipality. More than 200 programs have been categorized to assist in their prioritization and to focus the use of limited City resources. Results indicate that 84 per cent of the programs offered are either mandated by provincial and federal law, or are standard services provided by GTA municipalities.
Certain programs have also been selected for comparison of service levels to the same programs provided by other GTA municipalities. Following this review, to be completed by early 2013, public feedback will be gathered in order to gauge support for potential changes.
“On a go forward basis, the Program Review framework will be applied to all new program requests or program enhancements to determine, classify and prioritize what services the City will provide,” said City Manager Clayton Harris. “The needs of the community change over time and it is important to review all programs to ensure that we continue to meet community needs and identify future requirements.”
Public consultation is an important component of the budget process and residents and businesses are invited to attend the upcoming meetings listed below, where the Finance & Administration Committee will continue discussing topics relating to the Draft 2013 Budget and 2014-2016 Plan:
December 10, 2012 7 to 10 p.m.
January 14, 2013 7 to 10 p.m.
January 21, 2013 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.
All meetings are held at Vaughan City Hall, 2141 Major Mackenzie Drive.