Guelph/Eramosa passes budget with 2.7% tax rate increase

BRUCEDALE  – Gyelph/Eramosa council has passed the municipality’s 2026 budget, which will include a 2.71 per cent tax rate increase for 2026.

The budget was passed during a Dec. 8 meeting.

The 2026 budget will total approximately $23.4 million, including capital spending  towards public works ($1.93 million) and parks and recreation ($1.61 million).

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The tax rate increase of 2.71% will add an additional $41.82 to the township tax bill for owners with homes assessed at $500,000.

This does not include the county’s portion of the tax bill.

Finance director Maneesh Kulal previously told council the proposed tax increase for residents could be attributed to inflation, higher insurance costs and the rising cost of living.

At a Nov. 7 special meeting of council councillor Bruce Dickieson said he’d like to see a 2% tax increase added on top of the 2.71% to go towards infrastructure renewal.

Mayor Chris White opposed the idea, stating he is “comfortable with the 2.71% increase” as it meets the township’s needs.