Image from Loyalist Township
Loyalist Township Council has finalized its 2026 municipal budget, approving a tax levy of $24.457 million. This represents a 3.64 per cent increase for residential taxpayers, down from the original proposed 4.93 per cent following council amendments.
The reduction was achieved through measures such as anticipated spring ice rental revenue, summer student grants, changes to planning and development fees, and additional development revenue. Mayor Jim Hegadorn thanked community members for their input during the budget process and highlighted the upcoming generational capital renewal project at the W.J. Henderson Recreation Centre, expected to benefit residents in 2026.
The budget also includes strategic investments in physician recruitment, capital infrastructure, fleet replacement, and the Affordable and Purpose-built Rental Housing Community Improvement Plan. Funding is allocated for cybersecurity improvements and the rollout of an IT master plan to strengthen municipal services.
The final net tax levy will be confirmed after provincial and county education requirements are set.
Written by Emily Chatwood
