2026 Business Plan & Budget

Elgin County Council Approves 2026 Budget with Modest Tax Increase

Elgin County, ON – Elgin County Council approved the 2026 Business Plan and Budget at its January 27, 2026 meeting, setting the annual County levy at $51.1 million, an increase of $1.3 million over 2025. This results in a 1.17 percent tax rate increase for the average property and reflects Council’s focus on sound financial choices and clear priorities.

The 2026 budget builds on community priorities by strengthening communication, boosting support for business and tourism, improving road safety, and preparing for future growth in a way that honours the County’s rural landscape. Input from residents continues to guide decisions and shape long-term goals.

Warden Dominique Giguère shared that the 2026 budget is designed to keep the County moving forward with purpose. “This budget reflects a clear direction,” said Warden Giguère. “It keeps Council focused on core priorities, protecting essential services, improving how they’re delivered, and doing so without adding pressure on taxpayers.”

With the 2026 Business Plan and Budget now approved, Elgin County Council and staff remains focused on delivering services residents depend on and making steady progress on initiatives that support a strong, connected, and resilient community.

Key 2026 Budget Highlights Include:

• Safer roads through rehabilitation projects on Iona Road, Union Road, Ron McNeil Line, Calton Line, Glen Erie Line and reconstruction in the Village of Fingal;
• Stronger planning coordination by expanding collaboration between the development industry, local municipalities, and regional agencies to support more streamlined planning efforts across Elgin County; and
• Enhanced business and tourism support added marketing, a refreshed Elgincentives program with incentives designed to better meet the needs of today's business community, and a new Business Guide.

Through coordinated efforts across departments and a streamlined budget process, Council was able to approve the 2026 Business Plan and Budget much earlier this year. This earlier approval allows staff to begin projects and initiatives sooner, improving efficiency, supporting timely delivery, and ensuring the County can move forward quickly on its stated priorities.

For more information and to view the County of Elgin’s 2026 Business Plan & Budget, please click here .

For additional information, please contact:

Jennifer Ford
Director of Financial Services/Treasurer
info@elgin.ca
519-631-1460 x 107

Warden Dominique Giguère
warden@elgin.ca
548-888-6252