Got Credit / CC
Tay Valley Township has adopted its 2026 budget, with officials pointing to a significant rise in OPP contract costs as the main driver behind a 5.29 per cent tax increase.
The township requires just over $8.07 million in taxation next year, up $451,703 from 2025. Staff say 4.15 per cent of the increase — about $316,500 — is tied directly to higher policing costs. Without the OPP jump, the tax rate increase would have been roughly 1.78 per cent.
For a home assessed at $300,000, the approved rate adds about $100 to the annual tax bill. Tay Valley also saw modest assessment growth of 0.64 per cent, equal to $49,075.
The 2026 operating and capital budget totals just over $12.1 million, including $2 million for infrastructure renewal and equipment replacement. The plan sets aside nearly $2 million in reserves to support future roadwork, bridges, building upgrades and fleet needs.
Major capital work scheduled for 2026 includes projects on Upper Scotch Line, Old Brooke Road and Brooke Valley Road, as well as maintenance gravel across several concession roads. Design work for the Bowes Side Road bridge is also planned.
Other items in the capital program include vehicle replacements, upgrades at township garages and municipal buildings, trail improvements and environmental work at the Glen Tay Waste Site.
The financial plan also funds several mandated projects, including updates to the Official Plan, Zoning By-law, the municipal asset management plan and the township’s financial software system.
