DISTRICT OF LUNENBURG, COOKVILLE, N.S. — The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg has released its 2026–2027 budget, focusing on quality of life, core infrastructure, climate action, long‑term regional economic growth, and enhanced communications and engagement. The $49.9‑million operating budget and $33.2‑million capital and Canada Community‑Building Fund investments support major upgrades to wastewater and recreation infrastructure while maintaining a balanced financial plan.
The budget directs funding toward relief for residents facing rising costs, enhancements to public recreation facilities, an expanded transit system, and strategic upgrades to municipal infrastructure. Key investments include $24.5 million for the Cookville Wastewater Expansion, year‑one upgrades to the MARC and Sawpit Wharf and strengthened affordability measures including $650,000 in targeted property tax relief.
Mayor Elspeth McLean‑Wile says the budget reflects a commitment to both immediate community needs and long‑term planning. “This budget delivers responsible, forward‑looking investments that strengthen quality of life for residents today while preparing our municipality for sustainable growth. From housing and transit to recreation and programming, we’re taking thoughtful steps to support families, improve essential services, and build resilient infrastructure for years to come.”
More than $3.1 million in grants and rebates will support community halls, volunteer first responders, food banks, and nonprofit partners. New online tools — including a tax bill portal and regional permitting platform — aim to streamline resident access to services.
The average residential tax bill is projected to increase by $54 per year, or just over $1 per week, and the increase is driven by property assessment increases, not an increase in the tax rates, which have not increased for 16 years.
Budget documents, highlights, and a video can be found here: https://modl.ca/budget
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BROADCAST VERSION
DISTRICT OF LUNENBURG, COOKVILLE, NS - The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg has released its 2026–2027 budget, which includes a $49.9‑million operating budget and $33.2 million in capital and Canada Community‑Building Fund investments. The budget highlights new measures supporting affordability, major recreation upgrades, and more than $24 million for the Cookville Wastewater Expansion. Mayor Elspeth McLean‑Wile says the budget strengthens essential services today while planning for long‑term growth through climate action, transit improvements, and expanded community programs. The average home will see a tax increase of just over one dollar a week due to higher property assessments, not tax rate changes. Municipal tax rates have remained the same for 16 years.
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Media Contact
Sherri Turner
Communications and Public Engagement Officer
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.Desk: 902-541-1328