Mayor Shantz Highlights Balanced Approach in 2026 Township of Woolwich Budget

Woolwich, ON – Woolwich Council has adopted the 2026 Township budget, focused on strengthening long-term financial sustainability, addressing infrastructure and reserve pressures, and maintaining essential municipal services. The approved budget results in an increase of $99.83 annually for the average household, or $8.32 per month.

“I want to thank Council for their commitment, thoughtful input, and extensive time dedicated to this budget process,” said Mayor Sandy Shantz. “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.”

The 2026 budget marks the Township’s first Strong Mayor budget process and reflects a more transparent, inclusive, and collaborative approach. Council and residents were able to provide input early in the process through surveys, public delegations, and other engagement opportunities, helping to shape spending priorities and service delivery. Mayor Shantz noted that while the budget has now been adopted, the work does not end there.

Highlights of the 2026 budget:

• Base budget increase: 2.9%, driven largely by inflation and contractual obligations.
•  Additional funding (4.9%) addresses known financial pressures, including:
  •  Re-establishing the Winter Control Reserve for snow and ice operations
  • Adjusting the Equipment Reserve to cover rising replacement costs
  •  Contributing to other core reserves to maintain long-term financial stability
  • 1% increase to the infrastructure levy to support roads, bridges, and facilities
  • Modest service improvements totaling 0.4%, including community programs and operational enhancements

“This budget represents a big step along the path to improved financial sustainability,” said Shantz. “It demonstrates our commitment to affordability, efficiency, and long-term planning, ensuring Woolwich remains a safe and thriving community for all residents.”

The Township is managing a combination of rising costs and growing demand. Inflation and contractual obligations continue to affect the cost of services, while a fast-growing population increases pressure on roads, parks, and other municipal infrastructure. Maintaining and renewing critical assets such as roads, bridges, and facilities remains a key challenge due to funding gaps from prior years. To address these pressures responsibly, the 2026 budget pauses new staffing increases while management completes departmental reviews, improves coordination, and identifies operational efficiencies.

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

For more information on the 2026 budget, please visit www.woolwich.ca/budget.

View the 2026 Budget Infographic

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Media contacts:

Rae Ann Bauman, Corporate Communications
Phone: 519-669-6021
Email: communications@woolwich.ca