RENFREW, ON – The Town of Renfrew has adopted its 2026 Municipal Budget following a comprehensive and transparent process that included public consultation, Budget Committee meetings, and extensive review and refinement by Town staff. The Mayor’s budget was proposed on January 12, 2026 and the 30-day Council Amendment Period expired on February 12, 2026. The 2026 Budget is now deemed adopted.
The 2026 Budget was approved with a 7.73% tax levy increase to help address rising operating costs, support ongoing capital investments/upgrades, and ensure a continuation of services across the community. Council faced significant budgetary pressures in 2026, including notable increases in service and operating costs across several areas along with debt repayment obligations.
One of the most significant pressures was policing, which experienced an 11% increase from the province for 2026. Despite these challenges, Council and staff worked to balance fiscal responsibility while maintaining current service levels and investing in critical infrastructure and community priorities.
Renfrew remains committed to continued contributions to municipal reserves while investing in infrastructure renewal, debt repayment, and community initiatives. This balanced strategy supports long-term asset management, financial sustainability, and the Town’s strategic goals. A continued and long-term look at the Town’s financial strategy moving forward is currently underway and will be continued with the new term of Council beginning October 2026.
“While Council did not take the decision to increase the tax levy lightly, it became clear that this adjustment was necessary to maintain current service levels, address significant cost increases in areas such as policing, and continue advancing critical road and infrastructure improvements,” said Mayor Sidney. “We want to assure residents that every effort was made to minimize the impact of this increase. Staff and Council spent months carefully reviewing priorities and budget lines to ensure the Town of Renfrew is well positioned not only for 2026, but for the years ahead. As the new term of Council begins this year, the Town is also reviewing its long-term financial strategy to ensure we continue to respond thoughtfully and responsibly to rising operational costs.”
“Municipalities across the province, including Renfrew, are increasingly expected to deliver more services and manage growing responsibilities with limited financial support beyond the local tax base. Despite these pressures, Council remains committed to responsible financial management and delivering meaningful solutions for our community. Council and staff will continue to advocate, at both the provincial and federal levels, for additional financial resources and tools to support long-term economic stability for Renfrew residents and municipalities across Ontario.”
Key 2026 Capital Projects
The 2026 Municipal Budget includes several upgrades and initiatives, including:
- Munroe & Harry Road Rehabilitation and Drainage Improvements
- Local road upgrades to improve safety, functionality, and long-term performance of municipal roadways
- Pavement condition and underground infrastructure assessments, supported by StreetScan technology and remote camera inspections, to inform future planning, rehabilitation strategies, and prioritization of road improvements
- Knights of Columbus Park Revitalization
- Pumper Rescue Truck
- Financial Software Upgrades
- Park Signage Upgrades
The Town of Renfrew’s 2026 Budget reflects priorities identified by the community and aligns with the Town’s Road to 2035 Strategic Plan while demonstrating Council’s commitment to responsible financial management, strategic infrastructure investment, and the continued enhancement of community services and amenities, despite external cost pressures.
For more information about the 2026 Budget, please visit our 2026 Town of Renfrew Municipal Budget webpage here.
For more information, please contact:
Hannah MacMillan
Communications & Engagement Coordinator
Town of Renfrew
613-432-4848 ext. 117