Lanark County's go-to source for local news – covering Perth, Smiths Falls, Prescott, Westport, Mississippi Mills and everything in between.

Lanarkist

Perth invites residents to shape 2026 budget through survey and one-on-one sessions

Photo via The Town of Perth/Facebook

The Town of Perth is asking residents to weigh in on its 2026 municipal budget through an online survey and two informal drop-in sessions designed to make civic engagement more personal — and a little more approachable.

The 2026 Budget Survey, now available online, invites community members to share their views on Town services, spending priorities, and potential changes to tax levels. Town officials explain that the feedback will help guide council’s decisions as it works to balance community needs with financial sustainability.

To give residents another way to connect, the Town is launching “Coffee with Nev” — one-on-one, 15-minute chats with Treasurer Nev Jande. The sessions, which can be booked through the town’s website, are meant to give locals the chance to ask questions directly and have their voices heard in a casual, more accessible setting.

The Coffee with Nev sessions will take place on the following dates:

  • Wednesday, Oct. 15 – 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Michael’s Table
  • Friday, Oct. 17 – 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Hourglass

“We know the budget can feel complex, but it affects every part of daily life — from roads and recreation to fire services and community events,” said CAO Michael Touw in a release. “These opportunities give residents a chance to learn, ask questions, and tell us what matters most.”

The 2026 Budget Survey is open until Sunday, Oct. 19. Feedback collected by local residents will be shared with council as it develops the 2026 budget in the months ahead.

Leave a Reply