LANARK COUNTY — Lanark County Council approved its 2026 budget and received program updates focused on youth homelessness and small-business support. Staff reported inflationary pressures, wage impacts and housing needs as core drivers heading into the new year.
2026 Budget Approved
Lanark County has adopted its 2026 budget, Sustain the Momentum, with a 2.9 per cent increase after assessment growth. The county will collect $47 million from property taxpayers, up from $45 million last year.
CAO Kurt Greaves outlined major capital and service priorities including Better Homes Lanark energy loans and grants, $2.4 million in upgrades at Lanark Lodge, $2.9 million in housing energy retrofits, and bridge and road rehabilitation including the Five Arches structure.
Greaves noted inflation, health-unit restructuring, paramedic service pressures and long-term care wage agreements as key budget drivers.
Small Business Advisory Centre Update
Manager Cindy James reported more than 1,775 inquiries and over 475 consultations since spring. Programs such as Summer Company and Starter Company Plus continue to provide business training and grants, with more than 100 students supported since 2000 and 111 successful grant recipients through Starter Company Plus.
Webinars, workshops and one-on-one sessions remain the centre’s core services heading into the next intake on Jan. 12.
Cornerstone Landing Youth Services Update
Manager Elle Halladay told council that Cornerstone Landing has supported more than 90 youth this year, with more than 50 currently in active case management.
The organization provides housing supports, rent supplements, mental-health and food-security programs, creative workshops and youth employment assistance.
Incoming chair Bill Janes noted each dollar spent on youth prevention yields significant long-term benefit. Council thanked outgoing chair Terrilee Kelford for her ongoing work establishing a pro bono youth mental-health service connected to Cornerstone.
Next Lanark County Council Meetings
County Council, Jan. 14 at 5 p.m.
Community Services, Jan. 14 (following County Council)
Corporate Services, Jan. 14 (following Community Services)
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