Perth council approves 2026 mayor’s budget with focus on infrastructure and inflation

Perth town council has approved the 2026 mayor’s budget, adopting a financial plan that municipal leaders say balances the cost of maintaining essential services with the pressures of rising inflation and aging infrastructure.

The budget was passed on Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2025 following the review and amendment period required under Ontario’s Strong Mayor Budget Process. This year’s plan places a strong emphasis on long-term financial sustainability and continued investment in core infrastructure such as water, sewer, roads and municipal facilities.

“Council recognizes the financial pressures residents and businesses are facing,” Mayor Judy Brown said in a statement. “The 2026 Budget reflects our commitment to delivering reliable services, planning responsibly for the future, and maintaining the long-term health of our infrastructure, all while keeping increases as manageable as possible.”

For a residential property assessed at $350,000, the approved budget includes:

• 7 per cent property tax increase, adding about $244.28 annually
• 1 per cent capital levy dedicated to capital reserves, adding $34.90
• 6 per cent increase to water and sewer rates, costing roughly $182.65 more per year

In total, the combined impact amounts to an estimated $28.75 per month for the average household.

Town officials say the increases reflect rising construction costs, higher utility and contract expenses, and the need to bolster reserve funds while addressing decades-old infrastructure that requires renewal.

According to the town’s release, the 2026 capital program totals more than $3.7 million, with major projects including:

• Reconstruction of sections of Robinson Street and Thomas Street
• Upgrades to the Tay Basin parking lot
• Enhancements at the water treatment plant
• Critical storm, sewer and bridge improvements
• Replacement of aging municipal equipment and facility assets

The Town notes that only a portion of a resident’s tax bill is controlled by Perth council. Of the typical residential bill:

• 63 per cent funds Town of Perth services (including 12% for the OPP contract)
• 26 per cent funds Lanark County services
• 11 per cent funds education, set by the Province

The full 2026 Mayor’s Budget, including detailed capital project breakdowns and financial context, is available at Perth.ca/Budget.