On January 14, Meaford Mayor Ross Kentner officially proposed the 2026 municipal budget, the first budget proposed under the provincial Strong Mayors Legislation.
“This year’s process is unique: the Mayor has submitted the budget directly to Council, working closely with municipal staff to ensure a plan that is financially responsible, transparent, and accountable to the public,” said the municipality in the announcement of the release of the mayor’s budget.
The budget as presented would require a property tax increase of 4.35 percent in 2026, which the municipality estimates will cost the average property owner an extra $117.90 in 2026 based on the average assessed home of $273,000.
“As we present the 2026 Budget for the Municipality of Meaford, I want to acknowledge that this year is unique. The introduction of Strong Mayor Powers has changed how we approach the process, but I have worked closely with staff to ensure this budget is financially responsible, transparent, and accountable to the public. This plan advances Council’s strategic priorities including growing our economy, ensuring sustainability, strengthening our community, and investing in infrastructure. It positions us to meet today’s needs while planning for tomorrow, and I am proud of the collaborative work that has gone into preparing it,” said Mayor Kentner.
With the mayor having presented his budget, the rest of council will have an opportunity to discuss elements of the budget and to propose amendments during three upcoming budget review sessions which will be held on February 2, 3, and 6, beginning at 9 a.m. for each session, and will be open to the public.
“I am looking forward to hearing Council’s thoughts and the potential for amendments during our dedicated budget discussions beginning on February 2,” Mayor Kentner posted on social media after the budget was released.
While council will have the opportunity to propose amendments to the mayor’s budget, the provincial Strong Mayors Legislation allows the mayor to veto amendments made by council.
If council does not propose any amendments, the budget will be deemed adopted after the February 6 budget review session. If amendments are proposed by council the mayor has until February 16 to exercise his veto. Should a veto occur, council can convene a special meeting within 15 days in order to vote on overriding the mayor’s veto, which would require a two-thirds majority vote.
Key Dates for the 2026 Budget Process:
- February 2, at 9 a.m. – Budget Review: Day 1 – Operating Budget Review
- February 3, at 9 a.m. – Budget Review: Day 2 – Capital Budget Review
- February 6, at 9 a.m. – Budget Review: Day 3 – User Fees, Service Partners, and Final Budget Review
Residents are encouraged to share feedback by attending meetings or emailing budgets@meaford.ca. Full details are available at meaford.ca/budget.
