The 2026 Strong Mayor’s Budget has been released and is now open for public review. Council will convene Tuesday at 4:30pm., when the proposed budget will be formally presented. Following this meeting, Council will have a 30-day review period to examine the budget, provide feedback, and introduce amendments prior to final approval.
The proposed budget includes a 4.53% increase to the municipal property tax rate.
This increase applies only to the municipal portion of the property tax bill. In 2025, municipal taxes accounted for approximately 55% of the total bill, with 32% allocated to Middlesex County services and 13% directed to provincial education. These proportions are expected to remain relatively consistent in 2026. The Province has confirmed there will be no increase to the education levy, while Middlesex County has proposed a 3.78% increase to its portion.
For Strathroy-Caradoc ratepayers, the proposed municipal increase represents an additional $36.42 per $100,000 of assessed property value. This equates to approximately $145.68 for a home assessed at $400,000, or $364.19 for a farm property assessed at $1,000,000.
Although the Strong Mayor framework assigns formal budget authority to the Mayor, a collaborative and transparent process remains a priority. Council and staff will continue working together throughout the review period to ensure the final budget reflects strategic priorities, maintains essential services, and provides value to residents. Council retains the ability to propose amendments during the 30-day review period.
The full 2026 budget document is available for public review at www.strathroy-caradoc.ca/2026budget. Residents are encouraged to review the materials and stay informed as Council considers potential changes.
“I look forward to working with Council to arrive at a budget that is fair to the taxpayer while continuing to move ahead in our commitment to enhance service. Two of my objectives in preparing the proposed budget were first, minimizing any further debt and second improving many of our parks and recreational facilities.” said Mayor Grantham.
Written by: R. Mead/C. Soares