The Municipality of Leamington has finalized its budget for 2026, confirming a property tax increase for local homeowners. The average residential property owner will see their tax bill rise by 2.5 per cent next year.
What the Tax Increase Means for Homeowners
For the owner of a home assessed at the municipal average of $190,000, the increase translates to an additional $67.13 on their annual tax bill. This rate matches the figure initially proposed in the draft budget presented to the public on November 21, 2025.
Officials describe the increase as a modest one, necessary to maintain the community's standard of living. "This modest increase ensures the municipality can maintain service levels, address inflationary pressures, meet contractual obligations, and advance major capital projects planned for 2026," the town stated in a release.
Where the Money Is Going: Major Projects for 2026
The 2026 budget allocates funds for significant infrastructure investments, with a capital spending plan totalling $79 million. The key projects that the tax increase will help fund include:
- The North East Trunk Sanitary Sewer Project.
- Reconstruction of Seacliff Drive East (from Regatta Drive to County Road 33).
- Reconstruction of Seacliff Drive West, including a new roundabout.
- Improvements to waterfront parking and plaza areas.
- Replacement of an aerial fire truck.
- Upgrades to recreation facilities, including a refrigeration plant replacement.
- Various road reconstructions, drainage improvements, and new traffic signals.
"These investments will support residential, commercial, and employment growth, helping prepare the community for future development opportunities," the municipality emphasized.
Leadership Perspective: Planning for Growth and Stability
Mayor Hilda MacDonald, who also serves as the Warden of Essex County, framed the budget as a response to the community's evolving needs. "This budget reflects our commitment to supporting a strong, vibrant, and resilient Leamington," Mayor MacDonald said. "It invests in the infrastructure and services our growing community needs while keeping costs fair for residents."
Peter Neufeld, Leamington's Chief Administrative Officer, highlighted the budget's dual focus. "This budget looks beyond today and prepares Leamington for the community we are becoming," Neufeld stated. "It invests in the infrastructure and projects that will shape our future... while balancing the responsibility we have to current taxpayers. Our focus is simple: build wisely for future generations without placing an unfair burden on current taxpayers."
The approved 2.5 per cent increase for 2026 is notably lower than the previous year's hike. In 2025, Leamington residents saw a larger 4.7 per cent increase in their property taxes.
