Council received the 2026 proposed budget which includes a 2.25 per cent increase for operating expenditures and 1.25 per cent increase for an infrastructure levy for a total tax levy increase of 3.5 per cent. The infrastructure levy contribution to capital reserves is essential to address the funding shortfalls identified in the Asset Management Plan. Georgina’s water and wastewater budget includes its own costs, as well as the water and wastewater costs billed by York Region. An average single-family detached dwelling will see its water and wastewater bill increase by nine per cent. The 2026 stormwater rate is a two per cent increase over the 2025 rate.
Georgina’s 2026 proposed budget was developed with the commitment of building community and revitalizing spaces. It is focused on enhancing the spaces that define everyday life including parks, neighbourhoods, cultural venues and shared public areas. Major enhancements to public parks, including the construction of Willow Beach Park and the development of a new 2.46-hectare park in Simcoe Landing Phase 9, will expand access to high-quality outdoor spaces, promote active lifestyles and support community gatherings. Cultural infrastructure is also receiving investment through significant upgrades at the Stephen Leacock Theatre of Performing Arts and the Georgina Centre for Arts and Culture. The budget was developed with an emphasis on fiscal responsibility while meeting the needs of the growing community.
The 2026 proposed budget includes –
- $15.3 million for the construction of the South Keswick Fire Hall Station – funded by development charges
- $8.4 million for the construction of Willow Beach Park – funded by development charges, cash-in-lieu of parkland and discretionary reserves
- $3.9 million for a pavement management program for reconstruction and rehabilitation of various roads – funded by grants
- $2.5 million for Black River sidewalk and multi-use path – funded by development charges and discretionary reserves
- $1.6 million for Morton Avenue watermain – funded by water/wastewater discretionary and development charges reserves
- $1 million for Station Road, Old Homestead Road improvements and multi-use path – funded by grants
- $0.9 million for Lake Drive North shoreline revetment – funded by grants
- $0.5 million for design of Simcoe Landing Phase 9 Community Park – funded by development charges
- $0.4 million for Stephen Leacock Theatre upgrades – funded by discretionary reserves
The proposed budget includes feedback from 718 residents who participated in the budget survey online and in hard copy. Residents are encouraged to stay engaged with the budget process by reviewing the proposed document and providing comment. Feedback may be submitted to your Council Member or by email to budget@georgina.ca. The 2025 draft budget is available online at georgina.ca/budget. Council will deliberate the proposed budget on Dec. 2 and Dec. 3, 2025 (if required).