Budget Update – Mayor’s budget set to be published this Thursday; Mayor signals 3% maximum rate increase for 2026
Aylmer, ON – November 10, 2025
The Town of Aylmer will receive its first budget under the new “strong mayor’s” framework this week. Mayor Jack Couckuyt, at the last meeting of Council, announced a 2026 tax rate increase of 3% or less.
It is important to support local families and businesses in times of cost uncertainty. By setting the 2026 rate impact at 3% or less I intend to ensure Aylmer has one of the lowest increases in the province.
Mayor Jack Couckuyt
Prior to the Mayor’s announcement, the Town of Aylmer was projecting a rate increase of approximately 6% for 2026.
A rate increase of 3% will see the average Aylmer household pay approximately $5 more per month in taxes in 2026.
The Mayor is working with staff to finalize this proposed tax rate. Given the strong assessment growth in the Town of Aylmer, staff are supportive of the Mayor’s intent to lower the 2026 levy.
The 2026 budget marks Aylmer’s first under Ontario’s strong‑mayor framework. Since June, the Finance Committee has led a detailed review process including a community survey, public meetings, and opportunities for delegations. Staff have refined the draft budget based on public and committee input ahead of the Mayor’s proposed budget release Thursday, November 13, 2025.
Residents can review the Aylmer’s budget progress to date, meeting details, and ways to share feedback at: https://getinvolved.aylmer.ca/budget
Background
- The Province has announced Aylmer will receive $1,715,400 in 2026 through the Ontario Municipal Partnership Fund (OMPF), a year over year increase of $77,700 (4.7%) from the Town’s 2025 allocation of $1,637,700.
- In 2025, Aylmer received $1,637,700 under the OMPF, helping moderate levy impacts for residents.
- For 2026, the Province has confirmed Aylmer’s increase to $1,715,400 within a $600 million provincial envelope.
Learn More
- 2026 OMPF: Program overview (Province of Ontario)
- 2026 OMPF: Municipal allocations (Province of Ontario – Aylmer listed at $1,715,400)
- 2026 Town of Aylmer Budget Timelines with Consideration of Strong Mayor Powers
Owen Jaggard, Director of Legislative Services / Clerk
Phone: 519-773-3164 ext: 4913
Contact the Director of Legislative Services/Clerk