What We Heard: 2027 Budget Priorities

Thank you to everyone who shared their feedback as part of the District’s 2027 Budget Priorities engagement.

From June 10 to August 13, 2026, 1,225 people took part through online surveys, social media polls and community events. The feedback helps the District understand what matters most to the community as we develop the 2027 budget.

The feedback highlighted several key priorities, including:

• Roads, bridges and infrastructure

• Health services and paramedics

• Housing and homelessness

• Long-term care and seniors’ services

• Community health and social services

Affordability was also a key concern. Participants told us they want to see careful management of costs, clear information about where tax dollars go, and a clear understanding of the choices and trade-offs involved in the budget.

Public input is one of several factors considered as the District develops the budget, along with laws, Council direction, technical advice, available resources and community needs.

Read the full report:
What We Heard: 2027 Budget Priorities

Why Your Input Matters

Each year, the District of Muskoka determines how much essential services will cost and decides how tax dollars and grant funding will be used.

Your feedback helps Council and staff understand:

• Which services residents value most
• Where improvements may be needed
• What priorities should guide future investments
• How to balance affordability with community expectations

By sharing your perspective, you help ensure staff understand what services matter most to our taxpayers so that resources are focused where they will have the greatest impact.

Together, we can build a stronger and more vibrant Muskoka.

What Is a Municipal Budget?

A municipal budget is a financial plan that outlines how money is collected and spent to deliver public services.

It helps determine:

• What services are provided
• How infrastructure is maintained and improved
• Where investments are made
• How tax dollars are used

Each year, the District of Muskoka and the 6 local Towns and Townships prepare separate budgets to address the needs of our communities.

How Your Tax Dollars Support Muskoka

Property taxes help fund a wide range of essential services that residents depend on throughout the year.

District of Muskoka Services

The District provides services that benefit residents across all of Muskoka, including:

• Waste management and diversion (Municipalities no longer oversee recycling)
• District roads and transportation
• Community services and housing supports
• Health Services, including paramedic services and emergency response
• Long-term care homes
• Land use planning and development
• Water and wastewater services
• Environmental Programming

Town and Township Services

Each local municipality is responsible for community-specific services such as:

• Local roads and snow clearing
• Parks and recreation facilities
• Community centres
• Libraries
• Fire services
• Local planning and by-law enforcement

Where the Money Goes

The District budget balances many important priorities, including:

• Maintaining and improving infrastructure
• Delivering essential services
• Supporting vulnerable residents
• Protecting the natural environment
• Planning for future growth
• Responding to changing community needs

Budget decisions balance service levels, long-term planning and affordability.

Learn More About the Budget Process

To explore current and past budgets, visit the District's budget page:

District of Muskoka Budget Information