Council approves 2026 County Budget

Wyoming, ON - Lambton County Council has approved a net levy rate increase of 3.72% to the County property tax levy, finalizing the County's 2026 Budget at the Council meeting held this morning.

In total, the budget calls for spending $321.9 million in 2026, $106.1 million of which will be raised through local property taxes.

"I’d like to thank staff for their time and hard work put towards developing this year’s budget, and Council for taking the time to review it,” said Lambton County Warden Kevin Marriott. "This year’s budget once again reflects a responsible and well‑balanced approach that aligns with the priorities in our strategic plan. It ensures we maintain the high-quality services our communities need, while monitoring and preparing for future service requirements. At the same time, it considers investments to support long‑term growth and development within the County.”

In addition to the items included in the budget, Council authorized additional funding through the County of Lambton Community Development Corporation for the Western Sarnia-Lambton Research Park. The Research Park will receive up to $845,603 in funding in 2026, supported through current reserve funds. Council also authorized a funding increase to the City of Sarnia in 2026 to support their Planning Department.

The County of Lambton operates a wide variety of programs and services available to the public such as land ambulance, provincial offences court, three Long-Term Care Homes, 24 library locations and related digital resources, two museums, an art gallery, archives, local roadways, public health services, housing services, social services, building services, and planning and development services. The Corporation employs approximately 1,300 employees across over 40 sites.

A final version of the County's 2026 Budget will be available online at lambtononline.ca/budget in the coming weeks.

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Please contact:

Kevin Marriott
Warden
County of Lambton
519-381-6111
Email Warden Marriott

Karen Bettridge
Treasurer
County of Lambton
519-845-0801 ext. 5213
Email Karen Bettridge