Grand Falls-Windsor adopts 2026 operating budget
Grand Falls-Windsor has adopted its 2026 Municipal Operating Budget, the first budget of the newly elected council, focused on affordability for residents and long-term investment. This year’s budget is
balanced at $25,405,617.
“This is a budget built on fiscal prudence, strategic investments, and a commitment to the financial well-being of our residents,” said Councillor Amy Coady, Corporate Services Lead for the Town of Grand Falls-Windsor. “This budget is a blueprint for how we wish to see our town grow and flourish, while delivering services effectively and efficiently.”
Council noted it has prioritized affordability in the 2026 budget while recognizing that inflationary pressures affect both residents and municipal operations. As part of the budget, Council is reducing the residential property mil rate by 0.35 mil, lowering it from 9.5 to 9.15, resulting in approximately $10.9 million in residential tax revenue. Council has also made a significant reduction to the Idle Land Tax, from 15 mils to 5. The Town of Grand Falls-Windsor remains the lowest among comparable communities in terms of taxation per average household.
“The decision to reduce our residential mil rate reflects our commitment to easing financial burdens on residents while still maintaining core service levels,” said Coady. “We believe this adjustment is a crucial step in recognizing and responding to the financial pressures facing our residents today.”
Supports for seniors and vulnerable residents remain a priority. In 2026, the Town will reestablish a special tax category for Personal Care Homes at 4 mils and will once again offer a Senior’s Discount for residents aged 65 and over who pay their municipal taxes before March 31. This will be the final year the discount is offered under current provincial legislation, with Council continuing discussions with the province regarding its future.
All other mil rates, including Commercial Property Tax and Business Tax, remain unchanged. The Town’s 2026 operating expenditures total $24.8 million, supporting essential services such as snow clearing, garbage collection, utilities, and public safety. In addition, $650,144 of operating revenue is allocated toward capital investment without increasing borrowing.
Council noted it will also continue work to improve water quality in areas affected by discoloration, with
orthophosphate treatment planned to begin early in 2026.
The 2026 Capital Budget totals $15.6 million, with major investments in water and sewer infrastructure, recreation, public works equipment, and emergency services. To address growing housing demands, the town continues to leverage the Housing Accelerator Fund. This federal funding allows the town to remove common barriers to development by providing incentives to builders and investing in infrastructure that opens new land for residential growth, making new projects and subdivisions more feasible.
“This plan is more than just numbers; it is a roadmap for a stronger, more sustainable community,” said Coady.