The Township of Muskoka Lakes has released its 2026 Pre-Budget Report on Engage Muskoka Lakes, inviting residents, businesses, and stakeholders to review the staff-prepared document and provide input on local service and funding priorities for the year ahead.
Under Ontario’s Strong Mayor powers, the responsibility to present the formal municipal budget now rests with the Mayor. In support of that process, Township staff have prepared a Pre-Budget Report to outline anticipated financial needs and service levels based on existing commitments, projected growth, and long-term planning objectives.
The Pre-Budget Report will be presented at a Special General/Finance Committee Meeting on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. ET, held in Council Chambers at the Township Office (1 Bailey Street, Port Carling). Members of the community are invited to participate in this open meeting, with a Zoom option available for virtual participation, details available on Engage Muskoka Lakes.
While this report is not the formal budget, it plays a key role in:
- Informing the Mayor and Council of staff’s professional recommendations.
- Providing a clear overview of service delivery expectations and financial pressures; and
- Creating an opportunity for public feedback before the formal budget is presented, expected November 3, 2025.
As part of the overall municipal funding structure, property taxes in Muskoka Lakes are allocated as follows (based on 2025):
- 52% to the District of Muskoka (tax-supported programs)
- 23% to the Province for education
- 25% retained by the Township of Muskoka Lakes
This engagement focuses on the Township’s portion, which supports key local services such as fire protection, by-law enforcement, local road maintenance, recreation, community planning, and infrastructure renewal.
To access the reports, share feedback and/or subscribe for project updates, visit: www.engagemuskokalakes.ca/2026-prebudget-report
Upcoming Budget Meetings (more details)
Wednesday, September 17, 2025 | 9:00 a.m. ET
Special General / Finance Committee – Pre-Budget Report
Participate in-person at the Township Office or via Zoom
(https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86544619841?pwd=fpFe5VKExGiEsR4hl1ccAwWmIjRR5P.1 | Passcode:726081)
Monday, November 3, 2025 | 9:00 a.m. ET
Special General / Finance Committee – Formal Budget Presentation
Tune in via YouTube
Monday, November 24, 2024 | 9:00 a.m. ET
Special General / Finance Committee – Budget Meeting 3 (If needed)
