Antigonish County residents will see no change to their property tax rates this year, after council approved a $22.66 million budget for 2026-27 at a special meeting on May 26, 2026. The municipality kept the residential rate at $0.85 per $100 of assessment and the commercial rate at $1.43 per $100, both among the lowest in Nova Scotia.
The only fee change is a $9 bump to the annual sewer rate, rising from $316.29 to $325. It is the first increase since the 2018-19 fiscal year and will help cover higher operating and maintenance costs. A feasibility study and environmental assessment for a new sewer treatment plant is also part of the spending plan.
The budget directs significant dollars into community infrastructure. New sidewalks are coming to Appleseed Drive and Trinity Lane, connecting to Beech Hill and Sears Ross Road. Work will begin on the next phase of the Active Transportation Corridor, adding a cycle track and multi-use path from James Street to the Addington Forks roundabout. The municipal office will see accessibility upgrades, and the county is investing in SCADA technology to better manage water and sewer systems. A new garbage truck is also on the list.
Council increased the Low-Income Property Tax Exemption from $300 to $325 for households earning $40,000 or less. About $483,000 in Community Partnership Grants will support local groups, centres, and projects. A new environmental program offering rain barrels to residents has a $5,000 budget, and a By-law Enforcement Officer position was added to uphold community standards.
Tax bills will arrive in mailboxes the week of May 27, 2026, and are due by June 30, 2026.
