Devon adopts new 2026-2028 Corporate Plan

DEVON -- The Town of Devon has approved its new Corporate Plan for 2026-2028.

Included in the plan are the town's operational, capital and utilities budgets for the upcoming fiscal year. Devin Council started their budget deliberations facing a potential seven per cent tax increase, however, they were eventually able to reduce this to 4.98 per cent. Speaking at their meeting on December 8, 2025, Councillor Ben Gronberg said his feelings towards the new budget are mostly positive.

"There are parts of it that I didn't like, parts of it that I wouldn't necessarily be in support of, but overall, I think this is a very good budget," said Gronberg. "I think that there are things that are setting us up for future success."

The municipality says that the 4.98 per cent tax increase is broken down between a general tax increase (2.98%) to support maintaining service levels and managing increased operating costs, and a dedicated asset lifecycle levy (2%) to provide a stable funding stream for repairing and replacing aging municipal infrastructure.

"My concern with the rate increases is the structural deficit," said Councillor Mike Hanly during Monday's meeting. "That means that with these increases, we're marrying ourselves to future increases."

In a statement, the Town of Devon says some of the factors that impacted the new Corporate Plan included reduced revenue from fines due to the phase out of Automated Traffic Enforcement, and continued investment in IT infrastructure and cybersecurity. They also note increases at Devon Fire/Rescue as contributors to rising costs. 

"We entered this budget facing real financial pressures and Council and Administration worked hard to deliver a responsible plan that supports our residents today and sets Devon up for success tomorrow," said Mayor Jeff Craddock. "This Corporate Plan keeps our service levels strong, invests in aging infrastructure, and positions us to manage future challenges with confidence."

Some of the key projects outlined in the new capital budget include deck resurfacing at the Devon Community Pool and new additions to the Peace Cemetery. Upgrades to the GFL Twin Arena, Community Centre, and new firefighting equipment are also noted as significant pieces of the budget.

The Town of Devon says the final municipal tax rate will be finalized in May 2026 after the assessment roll is completed.