Tay Township Council Approves 2026 Budget

Tay Township Council has approved the Township’s 2026 budget that requires $12.7 million in taxation and $6.3 million in water and wastewater rates and levies.

Tay Township’s estimated overall tax increase for 2026 is 3.45%. For the median single-family detached residence in Tay Township assessed at $220,000 this will mean an estimated annual increase of $68.98.

The Township’s annual budget also includes funding from reserves, grants, development charges and investments which all contribute to funding municipal services and construction projects. In 2026, the Township plans to undertake $59.9 million in capital projects. Water system users have seen a 2% increase to rates or $1.38/month for a single-family home. Wastewater system users have seen a 5% increase to rates or $5.50/month for a single-family home.

“Council’s approval of the 2026 budget reflects our commitment to balancing affordability with the investments needed to support our growing community,” said Mayor Ted Walker “Council and staff have worked hard to keep the tax increase modest while continuing to fund critical infrastructure, emergency services, and community supports. This budget ensures Tay Township remains a safe, well-serviced, and connected community now and into the future.”

Budget Highlights  

Roads and Infrastructure 

Funding from the 2026 Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund (OCIF), along with municipal taxation, will support the 2026 Capital Roads Program. This investment will help improve road safety, extend pavement lifespan, and ensure reliable infrastructure for residents and visitors. 

Community Support and Grants 

The 2026 budget maintains funding for Community Assistance Grants at $25,000. Contributions to Georgian Bay General Hospital and Georgian Bay Physician Recruitment continue at previous levels, supporting access to local healthcare services.

Election

Funding for election-related services is included in the 2026 budget, with contributions set aside in non-election years to reduce the impact on taxpayers. The total cost of the 2026 election is estimated at $76,000 of this, $56,000 will be funded from the Election Reserve, with the remaining $20,000 funded through taxation, which is consistent with previous election years. 

Fire Services

To support timely and effective emergency response funding is included to replace one of the three aging auto extrication tools. The remaining units will be replaced in future years. As identified in the Fire Master Plan, the budget also includes the purchase of an off-road vehicle. This equipment will improve Tay Fire Services’ ability to respond to emergencies in remote or hard to access areas, including during severe weather events. The funding includes the off-road vehicle, track kit, transport trailer, firefighting skid unit with water and pump, and patient transport capabilities. 

Municipal Law Enforcement 

New dog licensing software will improve service for residents, with licenses available online or by phone. The new system will connect to a national pet registry, allowing owners to create profiles, report lost pets, and receive alerts. Unique tags codes will help reunite lost dogs with their owners at any time. 

Tay Township is committed to delivering responsive and cost-effective municipal services and infrastructure that provide for the long-term economic, social and environmental well-being of its residents and community. 

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Contacts: 

Mayor Ted Walker 
705-534-7248 ext. 258 
twalker@tay.ca  

Emmie Carlson
Treasurer 
705-534-7248 ext. 223 
ecarlson@tay.ca