The 2026 Mayor’s Budget schedule has been adjusted as directed by Mayor, Ross Kentner, to allow additional time for the Mayor to work closely with municipal staff. This change ensures the budget fully reflects the Mayor’s priorities while maintaining a tax levy increase that is balanced for ratepayers.
Strong Mayor Powers, introduced in 2025, gives the Mayor the responsibility to propose the municipal budget and allow Council the ability to propose amendments. This replaces the historical Council-led budget process. Given the significance of this transition, the revised timeline provides the necessary opportunity for collaboration and careful consideration.
Updated Key Dates for the 2026 Budget Process
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January 14, 2026 by 4:00 pm – Mayor’s Budget Shared
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Early February 2026 – Budget Review Sessions (following the ROMA Conference, which brings together municipal councils across Ontario):
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February 2, 2026 at 9:00 am – Budget Review: Day 1 – Operating Budget Review
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February 3, 2026 at 9:00 am – Budget Review: Day 2 – Capital Budget Review
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February 6, 2026 at 9:00 am – Budget Review: Day 3 – User Fees, Service Partners, and Final Budget Review
The budget will be “deemed adopted” once the process concludes, as required under the Strong Mayors Legislation. These changes reflect our commitment to a thoughtful and transparent process during this transition year.
Media Contact:
Holly Moroney
Manager, Communications & Customer Service
Municipality of Meaford
21 Trowbridge Street West, Meaford
519-538-1060 ext. 1601
hmoroney@meaford.ca