The Grand River Conservation Authority has approved over $42 million for its 2027 budget. The budget of $42,384,764 was approved by the authority’s board, made up of 26 members, on Friday during a general membership meeting. Roughly 35 per cent, or $14.7 million, will be contributed by participating municipalities. That number increased by 3.5 per cent from the previous year. The GRCA is expecting to generate 46 per cent of its own revenue through avenues such as camping fees, conservation area admissions, environmental education programs, as well as other rentals and sales. Government grants will make up another 11 per cent, totaling just under $4.6 million, and the remaining eight per cent totaling $3.5 million will come from GRCA reserves. “As we look ahead to 2027, the GRCA continues to adapt to a changing regulatory environment, while remaining focused on delivering effective, efficient, and fiscally responsible programs and services,” GRCA Chair John Challionor II said in a release. “This budget reflects our commitment to working with our municipal partners, protecting communities from natural hazards, conserving vital natural resources, and ensuring that residents across the watershed continue to benefit from the programs and services they rely on.” The first draft of GRCA’s 2027 budget was presented to the board on July 26, with the final municipal apportionment approved on Sept. 25.
