Wilmot Township’s 2026 budget was presented by Mayor Natasha Salonen on Friday, marking her first budget since being granted enhanced mayor powers by the province in May of last year. According to the new authority, mayors are mandated to unveil a budget prior to February 1st.
Acknowledging the necessity to exercise these powers, Mayor Salonen explained during an interview with CBC Kitchener-Waterloo’s “The Morning Edition” that although she utilized the strong mayor powers, it was a legislative requirement. She highlighted that despite the staff being responsible for compiling department budgets, the enhanced powers allowed her to engage KPMG to provide financial expertise due to the absence of an individual with an “accounting designation” for a prolonged period.
Following a challenging year for the township council, where a 50 percent tax increase was initially proposed for 2025 but later reduced to 18 percent, KPMG assisted in formulating this year’s budget. Mayor Salonen emphasized that KPMG meticulously reviewed each budget line item, scrutinized expenditure allocations, and utilized economic indicators to guide the budgeting process.
The proposed 2026 budget entails a 9.7 percent property tax increase, a 4.9 percent rise in water rates, and a 5 percent increase in wastewater rates. These adjustments are estimated to result in an approximate monthly increase of $24 for the average homeowner, as outlined on the township’s official website.
Noteworthy projects in the budget include allocating $12 million towards 44 capital projects scheduled for 2026 and transferring $1.5 million to reserves. Additionally, KPMG developed a comprehensive long-term financial plan for the township encompassing reserves and capital planning, set to be reviewed by the council in April.
With the budget officially presented, council members have the opportunity to propose amendments or modifications. A public meeting scheduled for January 29 will also allow community members to voice their opinions to the council.