Penetanguishene Council Approves 2026 Budget
On December 10, 2025, Penetanguishene Council approved the 2026 operating and capital budgets and the 2027 capital budget totaling $32.5 million ($16.8 million operating & $15.7 million capital). Opportunities for public input were provided throughout the annual budget process and all budget information was published on connectpenetanguishene.ca. The budget focuses on key areas such as roads, water and wastewater network and equipment upgrades and includes funding for the next steps towards a new multi-use recreation facility.
After careful consideration and analysis, the approved budget results in an operating increase of 2.41%, a capital increase of 1.16% and a 0% increase for Policing, as the Town’s Policing Stabilization Reserve was used to reduce the financial impact on residents in 2026. The total overall tax bill impact is 3.22% or $52.64 per 100,000 of typical residential assessment for Municipal, County and Education property taxes.
Finance & Corporate Services Chair, Councillor Suzanne Marchand stated “The annual budget represents months of collaboration, analysis and careful consideration to ensure that the Town’s financial plans align with the priorities of our Community, while maintaining fiscal responsibility. I’m excited to move forward with Council on the 2026 priorities identified.”
The Town’s capital investment in 2026 and 2027 totals $15.7 mil. Notable capital projects include:
- Reconstruction of Peel Street (Robert St E to Brock St)
- Relining of the Waterfront Park Sanitary Sewer (the Town received a $675,000 grant)
- SCADA Network and Cybersecurity Upgrades
- Arena/Curling Club Equipment and Structural Upgrades (the Town received a $190,000 grant)
- Charles Scott Playground Upgrade
- Housing Strategy
- Asphalt Resurfacing of Brunelle Sideroad
- Culvert Relining on Champlain Road
- Reconstruction of Lucy Street
- Memorial Park Concept Design and Engineering
Council approved a $16.8 mil total operating budget that includes $2.2 mil for Policing and $5.2 mil for the Water, Wastewater, Building and Wharf rate-supported divisions. Upgrading equipment, technology, recreation programs and road maintenance continues to be a priority. Free transit for seniors, free public skating and recreation subsidies for low-income families will continue in 2026.
“Thank you to our Community, Council and Staff for their collaboration and dedication during the annual budget process. We have accomplished this together and our annual budget process always has been, and will continue to be, a team effort. Continued transparency, accountability and enhanced communication remain a priority. This budget is not just about 2026 as it sets the foundation for long-term stability with multi-year capital and financial planning. The approved budget includes priorities identified by Council and our residents as approved in the Town’s Community-Based Strategic Plan and reflects our shared vision for Penetanguishene,” said Mayor Doug Rawson.
