Alnwick/Haldimand Township budget set

File Photo.

By Dan Jones, Northumberland 89.7 FM News.

Alnwick/Haldimand Township residents will be paying just over five percent in taxes this year, after the municipal council approved the 2026 budget following a special council meeting Monday. Two percent of the budget will go to addressing the Township’s aging infrastructure and to help plan for a new arena and community site in Grafton.

“This budget reflects our commitment to responsible financial stewardship while continuing to invest in priority infrastructure and services. Key projects, including road improvements, long-term planning initiatives, implementation of existing projects and plans, and the upgrades to the Haldimand Community Memorial Arena will help support a safe, vibrant, and sustainable Alnwick/Haldimand. By taking a proactive, forward-looking approach, we are addressing today’s needs while protecting the Township’s long-term financial health. I offer my sincere appreciation to the senior management team for their hard work and dedication throughout the process and also thank members of staff, Alnwick/Haldimand residents and Council for their contributions to this successful outcome,” said Mayor John Logel.

Key projects identified within the 2026 Budget include:

Review and update of the Township’s Official Plan and Zoning By-law, Development Charges Study and By-law.

Development of an updated Asset Management Plan, Drinking Water Master Plan, and Drinking Water Rate Study.Road resurfacing and/or reconstruction projects for Eddystone Rd, Dudley Rd, Massey Rd, and more.

Replacement of the Haldimand Community Memorial Arena ice pad and refrigeration system.Continued implementation of the Fire Master Plan and upgrades to Fire Stations 1 (Grafton) and 2 (Centreton).

Website upgrades, including the modernization of Building Permit and Facility Rental applications to online platforms, enhanced accessibility and searchability.