The County of Simcoe Council has approved its 2025 budget, totalling $962 million, to support critical services and infrastructure improvements in response to the region's rapid growth.
The approved budget allocates significant funding to maintain and expand essential services, including long-term care, paramedic services, affordable housing, transit, and waste management, while also focusing on key infrastructure projects such as road enhancements and the development of the Lake Simcoe Regional Airport.
Residents can expect a 3.625% increase in the County’s portion of municipal property taxes - around$10.86 per $100,000 of assessed property value. Of the total budget, $224.6 million will be sourced from property taxes, with additional funding secured from external revenues.
Warden Basil Clarke highlighted the County’s commitment to balancing fiscal responsibility with community growth. “Our team has worked diligently to minimize the financial impact on residents while ensuring that Simcoe County remains well-positioned to meet rising service demands,” said Clarke. “In 2025, we’re focusing on expanding affordable housing, enhancing public transit, improving road safety, and creating new opportunities for economic development.”
Key Initiatives in the 2025 Budget:
- New LINX Transit Route: Expanding public transportation to serve south Simcoe communities.
- Affordable Housing Expansion: Major development projects in Barrie and other areas to address housing shortages.
- Road Network Improvements: Phased construction and upgrades on County Roads 4, 21, and 22.
- New Paramedic Station: Establishing a new facility in Waubaushene to improve emergency response times.
- Museum Expansion: Enhancements to the C. Matthews Innovation and Transportation Gallery to boost tourism and education.
- Waste Management Redevelopment: Upgrades to the Bradford West Gwillimbury waste drop-off facility to increase efficiency and sustainability.
2025 Budget Highlights:
- Long-Term Care Homes: $188 million
- Paramedic Services: $83 million
- Children’s Services: $151 million
- Social Housing: $120 million
- Transportation and Engineering: $89 million
- Solid Waste Management: $82 million
The 2025 budget underscores the County's commitment to building resilient communities. “Our focus is on making Simcoe County a better place to live, work, and thrive,” Clarke emphasized. “This budget sets the foundation for a prosperous future.”
