Haldimand County Council approves 2026 Tax-Supported Operating Budget

On February 12, 2026, Haldimand County Council reviewed and approved the 2026 Tax-Supported Operating Budget. The budget results in a total levy requirement of $97.3 million which equates to an annual residential tax impact of 3.74% or an increase of approximately $12.12 per month on an average residential home. 

The Operating Budget pays for day to day operations of the County, including (but not limited to) salaries, wages, utilities, insurance and services like running arenas, pools and libraries, maintaining 600+ acres of parks, trails and cemeteries, providing emergency services and garbage collection. 

The 2026 budget reflects the economic uncertainty being felt across the province while addressing the need to sustain the high quality programs and service levels residents have come to expect and value. 

The increase to this year’s budget is due to inflationary/cost of living increases to operating costs along with initiatives that aim to enhance community health & safety, provide new recreation services/programming opportunities, enhance cyber security and maintain regulatory compliance.

Key projects and initiatives funded by the 2026 Operating Budget include, but are not limited to:

• Continuing the vital work of the Community Paramedic Program
• Continuing to support the Physician Recruitment Strategy (now in its third year)
• Operating the new Hagersville Library + Active Living Centre
• Enhancing the seasonal roadside mowing program
• Developing an Affordable Housing Strategy
• Creating an Age-Friendly Communities Action Plan
• Strengthening cybersecurity efforts
• Enhancing corporate technologies to improve customer service/find efficiencies
• Maintaining the contract for police services (11% increase from 2025)
• Undertaking a review of all building and planning related fees

“The 2026 Operating Budget focuses on keeping costs reasonable for residents while meeting the needs of a growing community during uncertain economic times. It aligns with the priorities in our Strategic Plan and invests in the projects, initiatives and resources we need to continue delivering high-quality services, work as efficiently as possible, and remain a resilient, future-ready municipality,” said Haldimand County Chief Administrative Officer Michael Di Lullo. 

“This budget was developed carefully to meet community needs and minimize the impact on taxpayers. There is a clear focus on maintaining essential infrastructure, supporting the programs and services residents rely on, and planning for the future. I want to thank our staff for their diligence in preparing a budget that is mindful of the current economic climate and prioritizes enhancing quality of life across our communities,” said Haldimand County Mayor Shelley Ann Bentley.

On average, a residential property owner can expect their annual property taxes to be allocated as follows:

For more information on the 2026 budget, property taxes, or the budget process, visit the Budgets web page.