The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg officially adopted its 2026-2027 budget on March 31, 2026, setting in motion roughly $83 million in spending aimed at local infrastructure, recreation, and community support.
While the budget includes significant investments, residential property owners will see their annual tax bills increase by an average of about $54. According to the municipality, this change is the result of rising property value assessments rather than an increase in the tax rate, which has remained frozen for the past 16 years.
The municipality has dedicated $24.5 million toward the Cookville Wastewater Expansion. This project is intended to increase treatment capacity to support future residential and commercial growth in the area near the Osprey Village development.
Public safety and recreation are also key focuses of the new budget. Following structural concerns that led to a closure in 2024, the council has pre-approved $2 million for the design and construction of a new wharf at Sawpit Wharf Park. Additionally, the municipality is funding upgrades to the Municipal Activity and Recreation Complex in Dayspring, a 100-acre facility used for year-round outdoor activities.
To help with affordability, the budget sets aside $650,000 for targeted property tax relief. Homeowners with household incomes under $51,840 may be eligible for a rebate of up to $650. Beyond these individual supports, the municipality is providing more than $3.1 million in grants and rebates to assist local food banks, volunteer first responders, community halls, and other nonprofit partners.
This budget marks a significant milestone for Mayor Elspeth McLean-Wile, who was elected in October 2024.
