Georgina Council has adopted the 2026 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 is essential to address the funding shortfalls identified in the Asset Management Plan.
“The 2026 budget was developed with the commitment of building community and revitalizing spaces. It means we are responsibly planning for growth while at the same time ensuring we continue to invest in our existing infrastructure,” said Mayor Margaret Quirk. “This is being done by proactively budgeting for future growth-related projects, such as the South Keswick Fire Hall to ensure service levels are maintained as the Town’s population increases, while at the same time ensuring we continue to invest in replacing our existing infrastructure through a dedicated infrastructure levy. This ensures growth pays for growth where possible, while also continuing to invest in our existing communities. I extend my appreciation to staff for their dedicated efforts and to my Council colleagues for their partnership. This budget reflects the collective work of Council and includes benefits for every ward. It maintains essential services today and responsibly prepares for the needs of tomorrow.”
The 2026 budget 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 continues to build on the priorities identified in the new 2023-2027 Strategic Plan and was developed with an emphasis on fiscal responsibility while meeting the needs of the growing community.
Highlights of the 2026 budget –
- $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
- $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
- $50,000 for subdivision entrance features – funded by discretionary reserves
- $37,500 for the extension of YSpace entrepreneurship programming – funded by discretionary reserves
- $30,000 for Sports Hall of Fame – funded by discretionary reserves
- $30,000 for a Seniors Property Tax Rebate Program – funded by tax levy
Georgina’s water and wastewater budget includes its own costs, as well as the water and wastewater costs billed by York Region. Council adopted the 2026 water and wastewater budget, which will see an increase of nine per cent for a typical household of 165m³/annum in consumption. This budget is funded by the water users and is not funded by the property tax levy. In addition, the 2026 stormwater rate will increase by two per cent over the 2025 rate.
“Developed with a focus on fiscal responsibility, the Town’s 2026 budget meets the needs of a growing community and supports numerous capital projects,” said Deputy CAO and Treasurer Rob Wheater. “We remain committed to ensuring every tax dollar is used wisely and that residents receive maximum value for their contributions. This budget prioritizes improvements to the spaces that are central to everyday life in Georgina, including parks, neighbourhoods, cultural facilities and common public areas. As our community expands, the Town’s commitment to fostering a safe, vibrant and thriving environment grows with it. This budget reflects strategic investments that respect the Town’s history and prepare for the future.”
Georgina’s budgets were presented under strong mayor powers. In accordance with the responsibilities outlined in the Municipal Act, Mayor Quirk provided the budget to Council, the Town Clerk and the public on Nov. 5, 2025. The budget was deliberated on Dec. 2, 2025. Since there were no Council amendments, the budget was deemed adopted as per the legislation on Dec. 2, 2025.
The Town promoted several opportunities to encourage public engagement and received resident input into the 2026 budget from a survey and dedicated email.
The total 2026 blended property tax levy increase for all levels of government is estimated to be 3.29 per cent. The final blended increase will be determined following the tax rate setting by the Ministry of Education for their portion of the property tax bill.
To learn more, visit georgina.ca/budget.