The Municipality of Leamington has adopted its 2026 Operating and Capital Budget, which includes a 2.5 percent increase to both the general and sewer tax levies. The budget maintains the Municipality’s commitment to investing in core services, public safety, infrastructure renewal, and long-term strategic growth aligned with Council’s priorities.

For an average urban residential home assessed at $190,000, the 2.5 percent increase represents:

• $67.13 per year
• Approximately $5.59 per month

This modest increase ensures the Municipality can maintain service levels, address inflationary pressures, meet contractual obligations, and advance major capital projects planned for 2026. These include sewer separation work, road reconstruction, waterfront improvements, and other critical infrastructure upgrades.

The 2026 Budget includes $79 million in capital investments, supporting key projects such as:

• North East Trunk Sanitary Sewer Project
• Seacliff Drive East reconstruction – Regatta to County Road 33
• Seacliff Drive West reconstruction and roundabout
• Waterfront parking and plaza improvements
• Aerial Fire Truck replacement
• Recreation facility upgrades, including refrigeration plant replacement
• Road reconstruction, drainage improvements, and new traffic signals

These investments will support residential, commercial, and employment growth, helping prepare the community for future development opportunities.

While investing significantly in the community’s future, the Municipality continues to take a fiscally responsible approach by:

• Conservatively estimating revenues
• Using reserves to stabilize rates where appropriate
• Avoiding new debt in 2026
• Prioritizing projects that deliver long-term community benefit

“This budget reflects our commitment to supporting a strong, vibrant, and resilient Leamington,” said Mayor Hilda MacDonald.  “It invests in the infrastructure and services our growing community needs while keeping costs fair for residents. We are strengthening the high quality of life we enjoy today and ensuring it continues for generations to come.”