Email icon Back to Search

Central Elgin Council has adopted the 2026 Municipal Budget, delivering key investments in infrastructure, public safety, and community services while maintaining a balanced and responsible approach to long-term financial sustainability.

The adopted budget includes a two per cent municipal tax rate increase for 2026. Water rates will remain unchanged, while the wastewater charge will increase from $2.85 to $2.99 per cubic metre to fully recover the Municipality’s treatment costs. For the average homeowner, these adjustments will result in an additional $5.53 per month for Central Elgin municipal taxes and water/wastewater services.

“Since being elected, this Council has taken a balanced approach to municipal taxes, making key investments while keeping tax rates stable to benefit all residents,” said Mayor Andrew Sloan. “Developed based on community input received throughout the year, the 2026 budget reflects a careful balance between necessary investments and responsible financial management, while maintaining a strong focus on customer service and the delivery of reliable core municipal services.”

The 2026 capital program includes 37 projects totaling $13.9 million, focused on community-wide improvements that support growth, resilience, and quality of life. Key initiatives include:

  • Reconstruction of Seventh Avenue in Belmont, including a new intersection, road widening, and a sidewalk connection to the new Belmont Meadows Public School.
  • Continued progress on the Flood Mitigation Program, with storm sewer upgrades along William Street, Edith Cavell Blvd, Maud Street, Bessie Street, and Lotus Lane in Port Stanley.
  • Improvements to approximately 32 kilometres of municipal roads through the Annual Road Resurfacing Program.
  • Necessary upgrades to the Port Stanley and Belmont Arenas to maintain safe and reliable operations.
  • Investments in critical equipment for beach lifeguards and for Central Elgin Fire Rescue.
  • A new, modern washroom trailer at Little Beach to provide clean, accessible facilities for beachgoers that will replace rented portable toilets.

Based on feedback from residents at community town halls, the 2026 Operating Budget includes funding for traffic calming measures to enhance public safety across Central Elgin. Local organizations will again be invited to apply for support through the Community Grants and Sponsorship Program, created in response to suggestions from local community groups, and continuing in 2026 to fund initiatives that strengthen community life. Inspired by resident suggestions, the Municipality is partnering with the YMCA of Southwestern Ontario to provide discounted swimming and aquatics programs, promoting health, wellness, and family-friendly opportunities.

“I want to thank staff and Council colleagues for their dedication and collaboration throughout the budget process,” added Mayor Andrew Sloan. “Through coordinated efforts across departments, we were able to develop a 2026 budget that responds to community priorities and ensures essential services are delivered reliably.”

The approved budget is one part of what determines property tax bills. Central Elgin property tax bills include the Elgin County tax rate and the education tax rate set by the Province of Ontario.

In addition to approving the 2026 Budget, Central Elgin Council also adopted the 2026 Fees By-law. As part of the budget process, staff completed a comprehensive review of municipal fees. Most municipal fees are adjusted annually based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which is 2.4% for 2026, to help ensure the Municipality continues to recover the costs of delivering services.

View the final 2026 Budget.