The Town of Bracebridge officially adopted the 2026 Mayor’s Budget on Nov. 25, with a tax rate increase of 4.9 per cent.
According to a report presented to council, a 7.2 per cent increase to the town’s levy is being partially offset by an estimated 2.3 per cent increase in taxable assessment.
For homeowners with a property assessed at $300,000, the Town portion of their tax bill will rise by $82.79, to an estimated $1,749 next year.
Although developed under Ontario’s Strong Mayor framework, town officials said the 2026 budget was shaped by Mayor Maloney’s direct, year-long engagement with council.
Officials said since COVID-19, Bracebridge has maintained an average annual tax rate increase of 3.7 per cent, which is only slightly higher than the provincial average inflation rate of 3 per cent.
“This demonstrates the Town’s ability to absorb major economic shocks and make considerable investments, while continuing to prioritize affordability and reliable service delivery,” said town officials.
According to staff, the tax increase will allow the town to advance downtown revitalization, including modernizing the historic Carnegie Building and redeveloping the former Memorial Arena site, and support major infrastructure investments across the community.
Additionally, the increase ensures continued contributions to reserves for the Town’s local share commitment towards the future construction of a new hospital.
