The Township of Hamilton Approves 2026 Operating and Capital Budgets

For Immediate Release

Camborne, ON – The Township of Hamilton Council has approved the 2026 Operating and Capital Budgets following a comprehensive and collaborative review focused on continuing its long-standing commitment to strong financial management, responsible planning, and balancing community priorities with long-term financial sustainability.

At the first Special Budget Meeting, staff presented a proposed operating budget reflecting a 7.4% tax levy increase. Council directed staff to undertake a further review to identify potential reductions. As a result, $78,100 was removed from the operating budget, lowering the proposed increase to 6.7% before assessment growth.

When the Township’s 1.0% assessment growth is applied, the net levy increase is 5.7%. In its deliberations, Council carefully considered ongoing financial pressures such as inflation, aging infrastructure, and service demands, while striving to minimize impacts on taxpayers.

The total approved 2026 consolidated budget is approximately $16.9 million, including a $14 million Operating Budget and $2.9 million Capital Budget.

Key Investments in the 2026 Capital Budget

The 2026 Capital Budget supports critical repairs, replacements, and upgrades across the municipality. Notable investments include:

Half-Ton Pick-Up – Emergency Support Unit (ESU): The Fire Department will replace a 2005 GMC three-quarter-ton pickup that has exceeded its useful lifespan. The new half-ton vehicle will serve as the Fire Chief’s Emergency Support Unit, while the existing 2019 half-ton will be reassigned for station use. This continues the long-term strategy of downsizing to smaller, more efficient fleet vehicles.

2026 Road Construction Program: Ongoing road resurfacing, reconstruction, and maintenance will continue as part of the Township’s infrastructure renewal strategy. Deferring these works would significantly increase long-term repair costs and contribute to safety and operational risks.

Bewdley Arena Ammonia Chiller Replacement: The chiller, originally installed in 2001, must be replaced by 2026 under a Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) work order. Replacement is required to maintain facility operations, ensure public safety, and prevent costly emergency shutdowns or repairs.

Camborne School House Playground Replacement: The existing playground, built in 2000, exceeds its expected lifespan and does not meet modern accessibility standards. Upgrading the playground will improve safety, accessibility, and inclusive play opportunities for children.

Baltimore Recreation Centre Sidewalk Replacement: Deteriorating interlock pavers will be replaced with poured concrete to address trip hazards and maintenance challenges. The project will incorporate a designated section to preserve and display existing donor recognition pavers.

Economic Development Strategy: The Township is poised to its first comprehensive Economic Development Strategy to support business retention, investment attraction, job creation, workforce development, and rural economic resilience.

Growth Management Plan: A Growth Management Plan will guide long-term growth and development, inform infrastructure planning, and support the upcoming comprehensive update to the Township’s Official Plan beginning in 2026.

“We sincerely appreciate the input of our residents throughout the budget process,” says Mayor Scott Jibb. “Their engagement helps shape local priorities and ensures that the Township remains responsive to community needs. I would also like to thank Council and staff for their dedication and professionalism throughout this process.”

Residents are encouraged to review the full 2026 Budget Package and learn more about upcoming initiatives by visiting hamiltontownship.ca/budget.

Recordings of the Special Council Budget Meetings will be available on the Township’s YouTube channel youtube.com/@HamiltonTownshipOntario.