Woolwich passes township’s 2026 budget featuring 7.8 per cent tax hike

The Township of Woolwich.

The average homeowner in Woolwich will have to pay approximately $99.83 more in property taxes this year.

On Tuesday, township council adopted its 2026 capital budget, featuring a 7.8 per cent tax rate increase.

The budget allocated $24.1 million towards planned municipal investments, including roads and transportation, facilities and buildings, and core infrastructure systems. It also put a hold on all new staff hires pending the results of a review of management.

The townships said the tax rate increase was driven by inflation and “contractual obligations,” as well as “known financial pressures,” including re-establishing a reserve for snow and ice clearing. They also called the increase necessary because of a fast-growing population, years of low taxes, and inflation.

“I want to thank council for their commitment, thoughtful input, and extensive time dedicated to this budget process,” Mayor Sandy Shantz said in a news release. “I also want to thank our finance staff, senior management team, and management staff for the considerable work that went into bringing this budget forward, as well as the residents who took the time to engage, provide feedback and participate in important budget discussions.”

“This budget allows us to respond to the pressures Woolwich faces today while investing in the Township’s future,” Shantz continued. “We’re making strategic decisions to ensure our roads, facilities, and services continue to meet residents’ needs for years to come.”