The Council Adopts a Balanced and Responsible Budget of $30.5 Million

During a special sitting held on January 13, the Municipal Council adopted its budget for the year 2026. This balanced and responsible budget of $30.5M includes a 3% increase in residential taxes, which translates into an annual increase of $123.15 for a median-value home. This increase is mainly due to rising costs caused by inflation.

The adopted budget aims to maintain essential municipal services while implementing initiatives that have a tangible and positive impact on residents’ quality of life, in an economic context that requires rigour and prudence.

 

Highlights

 

• Road Network – $200,000
  Maintenance work to preserve the municipal road network.
   
• Community Support – $392,380
  Support for organizations that contribute to the vitality of our community.
   
• Site Planning and Architectural Integration Program (PIIA) for the Centre-Village sector and a Special Urban Planning Program (PPU) for Farm Point – $50,000
  • PIIA: adjustments to the Centre-Village sector development framework to specify desired urban form, use of public spaces, and water management in response to observed growth.
  • PPU: activities to solicit community input on the shape and future of Farm Point and develop a shared vision
     
• Organizational Analysis and Five-Year Workforce Planning – $150,000Initiative carried out by an independent external firm in collaboration with the municipal administration.

"The 2026 budget reflects our commitment to transparency and financial responsibility. Despite a challenging economic context, we are maintaining essential services, investing in quality of life, and strengthening Chelsea’s financial stability. Together, we continue our goal of making Chelsea a well-managed, dynamic municipality focused on the future," said Mayor Brian Nolan.

 

Adoption of the Five-Year Capital Expenditure Program (CapEx)

 

The Municipal Council also adopted the 2026–2030 CapEx. It outlines the projects the Municipality plans to undertake over the next five years, scheduling them over time and financing them through various revenue sources. These represent the council’s intentions for capital investments.

The 2026–2030 CapEx is estimated at $41.7M, divided into annual phases as follows:

• $10.2M for 2026
• $9.3M for 2027
• $11.3M for 2028
• $4.8M for 2029
• $6.1M for 2030

 

2026 Highlights

• $1.4M for wastewater and drinking water plants
• $1.1M for vehicles, equipment, and public safety
• $218,000 for creating community access to the river
• $614,500 for parks, trails, and green spaces
• $6.5M for road infrastructure and safety
  
   

For more information, visit: chelsea.ca/budget.

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This page was last updated on January 14, 2026