Ramara adopts 2026 Budget

Ramara, Ont. / Nov. 7, 2025 – Ramara has adopted the Township’s 2026 Budget, supporting long-term financial sustainability through investments in reserves, infrastructure renewal, modernization, and community services.

“This budget is taking a responsible, long-term approach to managing taxpayer dollars,” said Mayor Basil Clarke. “It focuses on affordability while investing in the infrastructure and services our residents rely on every day. I want to thank Council, staff, and the community for working together through this process. This budget reflects our shared commitment to building a stronger and more sustainable Ramara.”

The approved 2026 budget includes a 4.05 per cent municipal tax rate increase, which translates to approximately $25 more per $100,000 of assessed residential property value on the municipal portion of the tax bill. This increase reflects a strategic focus, balancing long-term financial resiliency with current service delivery.

The final tax rate represents a reduction from the 5.97 per cent increase presented by the Mayor during the Special Council Meeting regarding 2026 Budget Review on Oct. 23, 2025. Following amendments at the Nov. 3, 2025, meeting, the budget was further refined, including:

·        Updating 2026 costs projections for the OPP - increasing from six to 11 per cent.

·        Funding several capital projects through existing modernization and capital reserves instead of new tax dollars.

·        Funding a $10,000 grant for the Brechin-Mara Legion Branch #488 Building Fund, funded through General Reserves, to support building renovations and community improvements.

·        Adjusting certain capital projects to reduce the tax-funded portion of expenditures and ease the impact on taxpayers.

Mayor Clarke confirmed he would not exercise veto authority on any of Council’s approved amendments. This confirmation completed the annual budget process, deeming the 2026 Budget adopted under Ontario’s strong mayor framework.

The Township’s $42.9 million total budget balances affordability with long-term sustainability. By focusing on reserve contributions and critical capital projects, the 2026 Budget builds on Council’s commitment to maintain core infrastructure and services while preparing for future growth.

Key investments include:

·        $4 million in road repairs and rehabilitation across the Township, including bridge and culvert renewals and upgrading gravel to hard surface.

·        $10.15 million wastewater treatment plant project to address aging sprayfields.

·        $300,000 in improvements at the Ramara Centre, supported by a provincial Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund (CSRIF) grant, including roof replacement, accessible playground construction, and baseball diamond rehabilitation.

·        $320,000 for fleet renewal and a $40,000 investment in fleet management software to enhance maintenance tracking and efficiency.

·        $880,700 contribution to reserves, strengthening Ramara’s ability to fund future infrastructure and avoid sudden tax increases.

·        $80,000 for building condition assessments of municipally owned facilities.

·        Staffing investments to build organizational capacity and service delivery, including an IT & Process Coordinator, Financial Analyst, Fire Prevention/Training Officer, and new administrative and student roles across multiple departments.

These changes reflect Ramara’s ongoing efforts to modernize operations, streamline processes, and enhance customer service. The Township continues to leverage technology, training, and cross-departmental collaboration to ensure efficient, transparent, and responsive service delivery.

“Council and staff have worked collaboratively to deliver a responsible and forward-looking budget,” said Gayle Jackson, Chief Administrative Officer. “These investments in staff and systems are essential to maintaining service quality, supporting growth, and modernizing how we work. By investing in our people and processes, we’re strengthening accountability and enhancing the overall experience for our community.”

The 2026 Budget also includes an increase to water (approximately $20 per quarter) and wastewater rates (approximately $54 per quarter) based on the average residential usage of 35 cubic metres per quarter to ensure the Township’s systems remain compliant with provincial requirements, including asset management planning. The rate adjustment supports critical infrastructure investments, which will modernize operations and enhance long-term stability and environmental protection.

The 2026 Budget was adopted under Ontario’s strong mayor budget process, which is legislated through the Municipal Act. Under this process, the Mayor is required to propose a budget, after which Council may suggest amendments within a defined period. The Mayor then has the option to veto any amendments, and Council may override a veto with a two-thirds majority. Once all timelines in the process have concluded, the budget is deemed adopted.

For more information regarding the 2026 Budget process, visit ramara.ca/budget.

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Media Contact
Melissa Gowanlock
Manager of Communications & Community Experience
705-484-5374 ext. 322
mgowanlock@ramara.ca