Wellington County Council has approved its 2026 budget, bringing a 3.6 per cent property tax increase. The change equals about $26 more per $100,000 of assessment, with the County tax levy set at $148.6 million. Most of the increase is tied to roads and bridges, police services, and social housing costs.
The budget is part of a long-term infrastructure push, with $686.6 million in capital spending planned over 10 years, more than two-thirds of it for transportation projects. Emergency services are also expanding, with five new ambulance stations planned across the County and additional paramedics being added through the service provider.
Housing supports are growing as well. The County is doubling new rent supplement units to 20 per month and adding 46 new licensed child care spaces in Mount Forest and at Wellington Place to meet rising demand.
