Lambton Shores 2026 Municipal Budget

The Municipality of Lambton Shores Council has completed the 2026 Municipal Budget, resulting in a balanced financial plan that maintains core municipal services while limiting the municipal tax levy increase to 2.75 per cent.

Market uncertainty and inflation-driven cost increases continue to place pressure on the Municipality’s operating budget, including rising costs for policing, insurance, fuel and labour. At the same time, the Municipality must continue investing in the renewal of critical infrastructure. The 2026 Budget prioritizes affordability while maintaining existing service levels and making strategic investments in essential capital improvements.

The Municipality’s $38.2-million operating budget reflects a 2.75 per cent increase in net levy funded through taxation, translating to an average annual property tax increase of approximately $39 for 96 per cent of residential properties in Lambton Shores.

The 2026 Budget was the first municipal budget to be developed under Ontario’s Strong Mayor powers, with Mayor Doug Cook presenting the budget to Council following a comprehensive process involving the Mayor, the Finance Committee, and senior staff. Council reviewed and discussed the Mayor’s Budget on January 12, 2026.

In preparing the budget, the Municipality focused on mitigating tax increases while maintaining municipal services through the use of reserve transfers, reduced reserve contributions, and other budget adjustments.

The 2026 Budget includes $25.8 million in capital investments focused on renewing existing infrastructure, improving public safety, and maintaining critical municipal assets. Capital investments include:

• $6.9 million for roads infrastructure, including $3 million for road resurfacing projects
• $4.7 million for bridges and culvert maintenance and improvements
• $1.2 million for stormwater system improvements and upgrades
• $2.4 million for fire and emergency services, including the purchase of a 4x4 mini-pumper apparatus for Thedford and other equipment lifecycle replacements
• $2.98 million for parks, recreation and community facilities, including:
  • Port Franks Tennis/Pickleball Court Resurfacing
  • Utter Park Ball Diamond Lighting
  • HVAC unit and a Compressor for Legacy Recreation Centre
  • Hot Water Heater for the Legacy and Shores recreation centres
  • Grand Bend Marina Pump Out
  • LED lighting conversions at municipal facilities
  • Other facility improvements and repairs
• $2.8 million for water infrastructure repairs and improvements
• $2.1 million for wastewater infrastructure repairs and improvements

The tax impacts outlined in this release reflect the municipal portion of property taxes only. The total impact on tax bills will depend on both County of Lambton and school board tax rates once finalized.

View the 2026 Budget