Kawartha Lakes outlines bold 10-year financial plan to balance growth and services

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

KAWARTHA LAKES: Over the next decade, residents of Kawartha Lakes can expect to see upgrades to roads, bridges, arenas, and community services, along with new facilities which will support growth and daily life.

At the, Tuesday, August 26th, council meeting, staff presented an update on the Long-Term Financial Plan (LTFP) for 2026–2035 which will accompany the 2026 Budget and Business Plan.

Mayor Doug Elmslie said, the plan is about making responsible choices for residents today and in the future. “The costs of running and growing our City are increasing, and we need to invest now to grow responsibly. By carefully managing taxes, debt, and reserves, we’re making decisions which protect both today’s residents and future generations,” he said.

The plan projects an average property tax increase of 7 percent per year, over the next decade. Most of that increase will cover day-to-day services, like emergency response, snow clearing, recreation programs, and waste collection, while a smaller portion will fund upgrades to roads, bridges, arenas, and other community facilities.

Adam Found, Manager of Corporate Assets, said, the increase is necessary to maintain services and reduce borrowing. “This is about keeping the City running smoothly and making sure taxes and fees remain stable, as we continue to grow,” he explained.

Residents can expect to see projects across the community, including: repairs to the Fenelon Falls Bridge, upgrades to St. Patrick Street in Lindsay, and improvements to the Emily-Omemee Arena. New facilities and expansions are also planned, such as: the Victoria Manor Long-Term Care Home, a new Cultural Centre, and upgraded fire and paramedic facilities.

Local residents are already thinking about the impact. Lindsay business owner, Kevin Hartley said, “It’s good to see the City planning ahead. We rely on safe roads and strong services to keep our businesses running and our community thriving.”

Long-time Fenelon Falls resident, Diane Campbell added, “Seeing investment in bridges and arenas makes me feel like sometimes we are looking out for both families and future generations.”

Sara Beukeboom, Director of Corporate Services, emphasized, the plan also helps manage taxes responsibly. “This plan ensures services keep running, infrastructure is maintained, and the City is ready for future growth, all while keeping taxes as stable as possible,” she said.

The financial plan also assumes continued growth, with hundreds of new homes expected to be built each year. That growth will expand the tax base and help offset costs. The City also plans to review user fees for services, such as: water, wastewater, landfill, transit, recreation, and permits. Some fees will move toward full cost recovery, while others will remain competitive with local markets.

Local resident and parent, Laura Jenkins, said, “I’m glad to see the City looking at recreation and transit services too. As a family, those services are really important for our daily lives.” Another Lindsay resident, retiree Paul Richards, added, “It’s reassuring, they’re thinking about long-term care and health facilities. It affects all of us eventually.”

With limited increases expected in provincial and federal grants, most new funding will come from local sources. The draft 2026 Budget will be presented this autumn, and the LTFP will be updated annually, following the budget process. Residents can follow updates, at www.kawarthalakes.ca/budget.