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Simcoe County Council has approved a $1.042-billion budget for 2026, maintaining existing service levels while investing in infrastructure, housing, and community supports.
County officials say the plan balances rising service demands with fiscal responsibility, positioning the region for long-term stability.
Key investments include:
- Major road construction projects (CR 4, CR 21, CR 22), bridge upgrades.
- Continued implementation of the Lake Simcoe Regional Airport Strategic Plan, including the Runway Extension project.
- Launch of the new 10-Year Strategy with funding for rental units, supplements, secondary suites, and supportive housing.
- Simcoe County Housing Corporation developments in Barrie, Collingwood, and Wasaga Beach, alongside continued support for third-party affordable housing projects.
- Further work on the Simcoe Village Campus Redevelopment in Beeton.
- Continued rollout of Community Paramedicine and Models of Care.
- Implementation of the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement, supporting the creation of 978 new licensed childcare spaces through a cost-based funding model.
The budget includes a 3.5% increase on the County portion of property taxes, equal to about $10.86 per $100,000 of assessed value.
Simcoe County serves 16 municipalities and holds an AA+ credit rating from S&P Global Ratings.
Follow along with the County’s budget here.
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