Collingwood, ON [19 January 2026] At a special meeting of Council on Friday, January 16, 2026, Council adopted the Town’s 2026 Municipal Budget, marking the first budget adopted under Ontario’s Strong Mayor legislation. While the legislation provides the mayor with enhanced authorities, the 2026 Budget was developed and approved through a collaborative process shaped by Council, Town staff, and community input.
“We were able to achieve a balance between investments in infrastructure, enhanced public safety, and new and ongoing Town services, without a significant increase to taxpayers. This is thanks to the collaboration between the public, staff, and Council,” said Mayor Yvonne Hamlin.
The Mayor continued, “The 2026 Budget focuses on maintaining core services while planning responsibly for the future. Key priorities include public safety, infrastructure renewal, parks and recreation, culture, and managing growth.”
To help provide stability for residents and businesses, the approved blended tax increase is 2.39 percent. For the median-assessed home in Collingwood, this means an increase of approximately $62 for the year.
Major investments include infrastructure work through continued construction of the new Water Treatment Plant, water tower upgrades, road resurfacing on more than 30 road sections, and Sixth Street renewal, including underground services and improved active transportation.
Parks, trails, and community space enhancements include completion of Wilson-Sheffield Park, Dry Dock Junction Park, and the Outdoor Rink roof. Further, the Town will continue to deliver 26 free community events and advance planning for a future Arts Centre and Multi-Use Recreation Facility.
The 2026 Budget also supports stormwater and transportation planning, water and wastewater improvements, enhanced trail maintenance, as well as expanded fire education and prevention, including the delivery of two new fire trucks.
Support for planning, economic development, housing, downtown improvements, accessibility initiatives, major projects such as Terminals Point, and the delivery of the municipal and school board elections on October 26, 2026, are also included in the 2026 Budget.
Thanks to community feedback, staff input, and Council direction, the 2026 Budget balances today’s needs with long-term planning for Collingwood’s future.
To learn more about the Budget process and view financial information for the Town, please visit www.collingwood.ca/budget. To get involved in future Budget processes, please subscribe to the Town’s news and notices at www.collingwood.ca/stay-connected.
