Join the Conversation: 2026 Aylmer Budget Planning

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Mayor's 2026 Budget

The Town of Aylmer has released the Mayor's 2026 Budget for Council's consideration, marking the next step in the Town's annual budget process.

Mayor's Message

Our community continues to grow because people see Aylmer as a great place to live, work, and raise a family. Every dollar matters to Aylmer families, and this budget reflects our shared commitment to keeping our town affordable and strong. It has taken a team effort to present a responsible 2026 Budget that maintains essential services, invests where it counts, and keeps the impact on households moderate.

Despite inflation and rising costs faced by municipalities across Ontario, this budget holds Aylmer’s residential tax rate increase to under 3%, being about 5 dollars a month on average. This responsible result protects services while respecting household budgets.

Aylmer’s growth helps us manage costs. As new homes and businesses join our community, they share in paying for services, which helps keep the impact on existing taxpayers moderate. This is the approach we have directed staff to take: spend wisely, find efficiencies, and use assessment growth so that growth helps pay for growth.

The 2026 Budget also makes practical investments in our town’s infrastructure. We are investing in core infrastructure, like our sidewalks, Town Hall, and outdoor pool, because these are the things residents rely on and value. These projects improve safety, extend asset life, and supports recreation for families. These projects and the Town’s operating plans align with the priorities that we continue to hear through our annual budget surveys and engagement; enhance parks and recreation service levels while keeping costs manageable.

This budget builds on the progress Council has made over the past three years, advancing long-term financial stability and the next stage of community growth, while ensuring that future Councils can continue to build on a solid foundation. It reflects months of careful work with Council, the Finance Committee, and staff, along with essential input from residents through surveys, town halls, and our public meetings. We remain committed to open communication and transparency so residents can clearly see how their tax dollars are put to work.

Thank you to everyone who participated and shared ideas. Together, we’re showing that Aylmer can grow responsibly, plan wisely, and remain one of Ontario’s most welcoming small towns.

Mayor's 2026 Budget

The Town of Aylmer has released the Mayor's 2026 Budget for Council's consideration, marking the next step in the Town's annual budget process.

Mayor's Message

Our community continues to grow because people see Aylmer as a great place to live, work, and raise a family. Every dollar matters to Aylmer families, and this budget reflects our shared commitment to keeping our town affordable and strong. It has taken a team effort to present a responsible 2026 Budget that maintains essential services, invests where it counts, and keeps the impact on households moderate.

Despite inflation and rising costs faced by municipalities across Ontario, this budget holds Aylmer’s residential tax rate increase to under 3%, being about 5 dollars a month on average. This responsible result protects services while respecting household budgets.

Aylmer’s growth helps us manage costs. As new homes and businesses join our community, they share in paying for services, which helps keep the impact on existing taxpayers moderate. This is the approach we have directed staff to take: spend wisely, find efficiencies, and use assessment growth so that growth helps pay for growth.

The 2026 Budget also makes practical investments in our town’s infrastructure. We are investing in core infrastructure, like our sidewalks, Town Hall, and outdoor pool, because these are the things residents rely on and value. These projects improve safety, extend asset life, and supports recreation for families. These projects and the Town’s operating plans align with the priorities that we continue to hear through our annual budget surveys and engagement; enhance parks and recreation service levels while keeping costs manageable.

This budget builds on the progress Council has made over the past three years, advancing long-term financial stability and the next stage of community growth, while ensuring that future Councils can continue to build on a solid foundation. It reflects months of careful work with Council, the Finance Committee, and staff, along with essential input from residents through surveys, town halls, and our public meetings. We remain committed to open communication and transparency so residents can clearly see how their tax dollars are put to work.

Thank you to everyone who participated and shared ideas. Together, we’re showing that Aylmer can grow responsibly, plan wisely, and remain one of Ontario’s most welcoming small towns.

Ask a Question about the 2026 Budget

Got a question about the 2026 budget? Ask it here!

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  • Share Can we have more grocery options in town? Can we slow down how many fast food chains are opening in Aylmer? on Facebook Share Can we have more grocery options in town? Can we slow down how many fast food chains are opening in Aylmer? on Twitter Share Can we have more grocery options in town? Can we slow down how many fast food chains are opening in Aylmer? on Linkedin Email Can we have more grocery options in town? Can we slow down how many fast food chains are opening in Aylmer? link

    Can we have more grocery options in town? Can we slow down how many fast food chains are opening in Aylmer?

    AylmerQ&A asked 3 months ago

    Businesses are free to locate where they desire. While the Town promotes welcoming businesses in general, it does not invite or approach them specifically.

    When a business appears before Council, they are typically requesting approval of a planning application (zoning change, severance, minor variance). These businesses are not asking permission to locate in Aylmer.

    2026 budget
    2026 budget
  • Share Does the Town have dedicated staff applying for grants? on Facebook Share Does the Town have dedicated staff applying for grants? on Twitter Share Does the Town have dedicated staff applying for grants? on Linkedin Email Does the Town have dedicated staff applying for grants? link

    Does the Town have dedicated staff applying for grants?

    AylmerQ&A asked 3 months ago

    Thanks to our staff who wear many hats and work together to apply for grants, the Town has been the successful recipient of:

    • Seniors Community Grant 
    • Fire Protection Grant Program
    • Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund
    • Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund
    • Canadian Heritage Celebrate Canada Fund
    • Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation of Canada
    • Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund 


    The Town does not have a dedicated position for grant acquisition however our Legislative Services Coordinator typically serves as the point person for grant applications, coordinating with various departments to ensure the submission is relevant, complete, and submitted on time.

    2026 budget
    2026 budget
  • Share Is it possible to pay property taxes monthly? on Facebook Share Is it possible to pay property taxes monthly? on Twitter Share Is it possible to pay property taxes monthly? on Linkedin Email Is it possible to pay property taxes monthly? link

    Is it possible to pay property taxes monthly?

    AylmerQ&A asked 3 months ago

    Although the Town does not offer a 12-month payment plan, you may be interested in signing up for a Pre-Authorized Payment Plan that withdraws your property tax payments on a 10-month plan.

    Contact us today for more information about 10-month Pre-Authorized Plans or visit www.aylmer.ca/pap-plan to sign up!

    2026 budget
    2026 budget
  • Share What's happening with the Aylmer-Malahide boundary adjustment? on Facebook Share What's happening with the Aylmer-Malahide boundary adjustment? on Twitter Share What's happening with the Aylmer-Malahide boundary adjustment? on Linkedin Email What's happening with the Aylmer-Malahide boundary adjustment? link

    What's happening with the Aylmer-Malahide boundary adjustment?

    AylmerQ&A asked 3 months ago

    The Town of Aylmer and the Township of Malahide are actively meeting to discuss and negotiate which lands could officially become part of Aylmer.

    If both municipalities can reach an agreement, a draft boundary change agreement will be prepared which will outline timelines and responsibilities for both sides.

    Stay tuned for more updates as this progresses.

    2026 budget
    2026 budget
  • Share What's happening with the site of the downtown fire? Can it be turned into a park or green space? on Facebook Share What's happening with the site of the downtown fire? Can it be turned into a park or green space? on Twitter Share What's happening with the site of the downtown fire? Can it be turned into a park or green space? on Linkedin Email What's happening with the site of the downtown fire? Can it be turned into a park or green space? link

    What's happening with the site of the downtown fire? Can it be turned into a park or green space?

    AylmerQ&A asked 3 months ago

    The property that was levelled in 2023 by a fire remains privately owned, which means decisions about development are up to the owner.

    The idea of adding some greenery or public seating has been shared with the Parks and Beautification Advisory Committee for consideration. Any potential enhancements would need to respect private property rights.

    2026 budget
    2026 budget
  • Share Why doesn't Aylmer build a bypass to avoid downtown traffic? on Facebook Share Why doesn't Aylmer build a bypass to avoid downtown traffic? on Twitter Share Why doesn't Aylmer build a bypass to avoid downtown traffic? on Linkedin Email Why doesn't Aylmer build a bypass to avoid downtown traffic? link

    Why doesn't Aylmer build a bypass to avoid downtown traffic?

    AylmerQ&A asked 3 months ago

    We understand that traffic congestion can be frustrating.

    Talbot Street (Highway 3) is a provincially managed road, not a municipal one.

    Building a bypass is a major infrastructure project that involves years of planning, environmental assessments, engineering studies, and significant funding - usually led by the Province, not the Town.

    2026 budget
    2026 budget
  • Share What is being done about the feral cat issue in Aylmer? on Facebook Share What is being done about the feral cat issue in Aylmer? on Twitter Share What is being done about the feral cat issue in Aylmer? on Linkedin Email What is being done about the feral cat issue in Aylmer? link

    What is being done about the feral cat issue in Aylmer?

    AylmerQ&A asked 3 months ago

    Town staff are exploring a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program. This involves humanely trapping feral cats, spaying or neutering them, and then returning them to their original location. This helps prevent overpopulation while allowing the cats to live out their natural lives without reproducing.

    Costs and implementation options will be presented for consideration during the 2026 budget deliberations.

    2026 budget
    2026 budget
  • Share Why hasn't my road or sidewalk been fixed yet? on Facebook Share Why hasn't my road or sidewalk been fixed yet? on Twitter Share Why hasn't my road or sidewalk been fixed yet? on Linkedin Email Why hasn't my road or sidewalk been fixed yet? link

    Why hasn't my road or sidewalk been fixed yet?

    AylmerQ&A asked 3 months ago

    The Town has developed a 10-Year Capital Plan Map and Sidewalk Map to guide these improvements.

    These long-term plans help ensure we make the best use of available budgets and maximize the life of our infrastructure.

    Wondering when your road or sidewalk is scheduled for work?

    Check out the maps on our website for timelines and priorities.

    Aylmer Capital Project Map

    Aylmer Sidewalk Plan Map

    2026 budget
    2026 budget
  • Share What is the Town doing about the doctor shortage? on Facebook Share What is the Town doing about the doctor shortage? on Twitter Share What is the Town doing about the doctor shortage? on Linkedin Email What is the Town doing about the doctor shortage? link

    What is the Town doing about the doctor shortage?

    AylmerQ&A asked 3 months ago

    While municipalities don’t directly manage health care, some members of Aylmer Council, including the Mayor, serve on a dedicated committee working to address physician recruitment and retention.

    Advocacy efforts are underway at both the Elgin County level and the provincial level, as we continue to push for long-term solutions to the doctor shortage.

    2026 budget
    2026 budget
  • Share Would the Town consider allowing year-round waste and brush drop-off? on Facebook Share Would the Town consider allowing year-round waste and brush drop-off? on Twitter Share Would the Town consider allowing year-round waste and brush drop-off? on Linkedin Email Would the Town consider allowing year-round waste and brush drop-off? link

    Would the Town consider allowing year-round waste and brush drop-off?

    AylmerQ&A asked 3 months ago

    Yard waste and brush can be disposed of year round in the following ways:

    • Each residential unit is permitted a total of three untagged bags of garbage once weekly. One of these untagged bags can be yard waste. Yard waste must be in a biodegradable bag.
    • You may also set an unlimited number of yard waste bags with bag tags on each one at the curb for regular collection.
    • Aylmer residents are permitted to use the St. Thomas Community Recycling Centre, 330 South Edgeware Road, St. Thomas
    2026 budget
    2026 budget
Page last updated: 13 Nov 2025, 10:42 AM