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...