Roads, recreation and emergency services highlight Kawartha Lakes’ 2026 capital budget

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

KAWARTHA LAKES: At a Special Council Budget Meeting, on November 12th, 2025, the City of Kawartha Lakes (CKL) outlined its proposed 2026 Capital Budget, Special Projects Budget and Water–Wastewater Budget, representing more than $178 million in planned investments. Director of Corporate Services, Sara Beukeboom, presented the plans, emphasizing continued infrastructure renewal, service modernization, and preparation for future growth.

The 2026 Capital Budget includes more than $126 million, for upgrades and expansion across the municipality. Ms. Beukeboom noted, the focus remains on state-of-good-repair work and major projects which directly affect daily life for residents. Major transportation investments include: resurfacing along CKL Road 121, reconstruction on St. Patrick Street, construction of the Colborne Street Bridge, upgrades at the Colborne and William Streets intersection, improvements at the Colborne and Lindsay Streets intersection and resurfacing along Salem Road. These improvements, she said, will support safer, more reliable travel.

Lindsay resident, Gavin Hurst said, the roadwork is overdue in many areas. “A lot of these roads have needed attention for years, so it’s good to see them finally moving forward with these projects. Better roads, hopefully, mean safer driving for everyone,” he stated.

Community facility improvements are also part of the plan. Renovations are scheduled for dressing rooms and the lobby at the Emily–Omemee Arena, and upgrades are planned for Sylvester, Ops, McAlpine and Arbour Parks. Enhancements to the City Hall Block will help support weddings and civic events. Oakwood resident, Jennifer McAllister welcomed the focus on recreation infrastructure. “As a parent, I’m glad the city is continuing to invest in arenas and parks. These are places where families spend a lot of time, and keeping them updated really matters,” she explained.

Emergency services will see new ambulances, a replacement tanker truck and police cruiser, as well as, the development of a new Paramedic Headquarters and Fleet Centre. Fire Chief Terry Jones said, maintaining modern equipment is essential. “These investments make a real difference on the ground. When our crews have reliable vehicles and updated facilities, they can respond faster and more effectively,” he shared.

The 2026 Special Projects Budget totals $6.6 million and will fund a broad range of studies and modernization initiatives. These include: a Roads Needs Study, a Bridge and Culvert Structures Study, a Roads Operations Master Plan, and a facility condition assessments. Several upgrades are planned for information technology and finance systems, including: enterprise software expansion, improvements to property tax and revenue systems, financial system modernization, IT infrastructure upgrades, and enhancements to human resources information systems. Additional studies include: a Fire Master Plan and Station Location Study, a Fire Community Risk Assessment, the Kawartha Lakes Police Strategic Plan, and a Fire Radio Gapping Study. Work related to housing and human services involves: operational review implementation, a financial diagnostic review implementation plan, and a community housing providers strategy. Planning work for recreation facilities, downtown revitalization in Bobcaygeon, and updates to the Official Plan and urban zoning also form part of the budget.

For 2026, the Water–Wastewater Budget proposes a 4 percent rate increase, continuing the municipality’s effort to balance affordability with long-term infrastructure needs. The $46 million Water–Wastewater Capital Budget will fund treatment upgrades, pumping station improvements, and system renewal across all 21 water treatment facilities and six wastewater treatment plants. Municipal comparisons show rates have become more affordable over time, relative to other communities.

Mayor Doug Elmslie said, the budget is designed to position Kawartha Lakes for continued growth, while maintaining essential services. “The proposed 2026 Capital Budget reinforces Council’s commitment to maintaining essential services, preparing for growth and supporting strong, healthy and connected communities,” said Mayor Elmslie. “We have some big growth years ahead, and we’re making sure we are ready for it.”

Fenelon Falls resident, Brian Caldwell said, he appreciates the municipality’s long-term approach, “It’s good to see the city planning ahead, instead of waiting until something breaks down. The growth is coming, and investing now is the smart move,” he said.

Council will continue budget deliberations, in the coming weeks, before finalizing the 2026 financial plan.