Town of Perth Council Approves 2026 Mayor’s Budget

On Tuesday, December 9, the Council of the Town of Perth approved the 2026 Mayor’s Budget, following the review and amendment period prescribed under Ontario’s Strong Mayor Budget Process. This year’s budget balances the need to maintain essential municipal services with the realities of rising costs, aging infrastructure, and long-term financial sustainability.

Throughout deliberations, Council emphasized alignment with the Town’s Strategic Plan and the importance of maintaining community affordability while ensuring that critical infrastructure continues to be renewed. As outlined in the Mayor’s proposed budget presentation, reinvestment in water, sewer, transportation, and facility assets remains a central priority for 2026.

“Council recognizes the financial pressures residents and businesses are facing,” says Mayor Judy Brown. “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.”

The approved 2026 Mayor’s Budget includes the following changes for residential properties assessed by MPAC at $350,000:

• A 7% property tax increase, with an estimated annual impact of $244.28.
• A 1% capital levy, dedicated directly to capital reserves, adding $34.90 annually.
• A 6% increase to water and sewer rates, resulting in an estimated annual impact of $182.65, based on average 2025 billing.
• Combined monthly impact to taxpayers: approximately $28.75.
• These adjustments support cost increases driven by construction inflation, utility and contract escalation, reserve contributions, and the need to address a necessary infrastructure renewal.

The 2026 Budget includes more than $3.7 million in capital projects, including road reconstruction, water and sewer upgrades, equipment replacement, and facility improvements. Major projects include components of Robinson Street and Thomas Street reconstruction, Tay Basin parking lot upgrades, water treatment plant enhancements, and critical storm, sewer, and bridge works.

Understanding Your Property Tax Bill

The residential property tax bill is divided into three components:

• Town of Perth services: 63% of the total (including 12% for the OPP contract).
• Lanark County services: 26% of the total. 
• Education: 11% of the total. 

The Town of Perth Council has direct control over the billing for the Town’s services. Lanark County services and budget are governed by County Council, made up of representatives from all eight municipalities within the County; while the Province of Ontario sets education rates and determines OPP costs.

The full 2026 Mayor’s Budget, including capital project details, financial context, and supporting information is available on the Town’s website at Perth.ca/Budget.