Reserves and reserve funds are similar to a savings account where funds are set aside for future capital needs.

The City’s reserves can be broken down into two categories:

Non-Obligatory (Discretionary): Non-Obligatory reserves are based on Council direction and are used to finance future expenditures designated by Council. They are comprised of the tax supported and rate supported reserves and the Hamilton Future Fund.

Obligatory: Obligatory reserves are funds that are required by the province to be segregated for a specific purpose. They are comprised of development charge reserves, federal & provincial gas reserves, parkland dedication reserves and building permit reserves