Municipal councils in Essex County, Chatham-Kent, and Sarnia are navigating significant property tax hikes as they work through their budgets for the upcoming year. Tax increases have become a pressing concern as municipalities grapple with inflation pressures, rising policing costs, and the pressing need to address aging infrastructure.
Property Tax Hikes Overview
- Amherstburg: 2.86% tax levy increase.
- Chatham-Kent: 4.63% tax levy increase.
- County of Essex: 2.25% tax levy increase.
- Town of Essex: 3.25% tax levy increase.
- Kinsgville: 5.9% tax levy increase.
- Lakeshore: 1.76% tax levy increase, the lowest in the region.
- LaSalle: 3.47% tax levy increase.
- Leamington: 2.5% tax levy increase.
- Sarnia: 3.82% (outside transit levy) and 3.95% (inside transit levy).
Amherstburg
Amherstburg anticipates a tax levy increase of 2.86%. A petition earlier this year highlighted road maintenance issues, emphasizing the challenge of balancing tax increases with essential infrastructure repairs. The local council aims to gradually increase the tax levy by 2.5% annually starting in 2027 to maintain infrastructure standards.
Chatham-Kent
Chatham-Kent’s budget includes a tax levy increase of 4.63%, with part allocated to social issues like homelessness and addiction support. Budget Chair Coun. Brock McGregor indicated that the increase will help maintain existing services and facilitate future reports on addressing homelessness.
County of Essex
The County of Essex approved a 2.25% tax increase for 2026, resulting in about $44.02 more per $350,000 of assessed home value. This budget supports essential services including a homelessness program and funding for ambulances.
Town of Essex
The Town of Essex is facing a 3.25% tax increase. The average household will see an annual increase of approximately $95.57. Funds will be allocated for infrastructure maintenance and policing, alongside a proposed new fire station.
Kingsville
Kingsville residents will deal with a 5.9% tax hike, translating to roughly $126.07 on the average home. Investments in infrastructure and policing are key reasons for this significant increase, with a focus on ensuring adequate funding for these essential areas.
Lakeshore
Lakeshore reported the lowest tax levy increase in the region at 1.76%, averaging $54 annually per household. Strategic budget cuts allowed for this reduction without compromising infrastructure funding.
LaSalle
LaSalle’s tax levy will rise by 3.47%, equating to about $109.99 annually for the average home. Budget adjustments aimed to minimize impacts on taxpayers while meeting essential infrastructure needs.
Leamington
Leamington’s tax levy increase of 2.5% means residents with homes valued at $190,000 will pay $67.13 more in 2026. Planned projects include road and infrastructure repairs, showcasing a commitment to community improvement.
Sarnia
Sarnia’s budget reveals a contentious climate, with tax increases of 3.95% inside the transit area and 3.82% outside it. Mayor Mike Bradley opposed significant borrowing for police and recreation projects, highlighting concerns over long-term fiscal health.
Conclusion
As property tax increases loom across Essex County, Chatham-Kent, and Sarnia, councils face tough decisions balancing immediate needs against long-term financial health. Residents can expect to see varying tax impacts as municipalities strive to manage budgets amid rising costs and infrastructure challenges.
