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Ontario municipalities are juggling more than usual this budget season as global uncertainty and potential trade impacts pile on to existing financial stressors. Amidst the noise and confusion, it can be easy to overlook tools that can make these year-to-year gyrations easier, such as strategic, long-term investment planning.

In 2024, the Municipality of Kincardine made the significant decision to sell Bruce Telecom. Council saw the $32.65 million sale as an opportunity to invest in the community’s future while honouring the asset’s legacy.

It looks like 2025 is shaping up to be one for history books with our federal election and trade tensions with the US. Such developments inevitably feed into the financial markets, fostering an atmosphere of uncertainty.

The threat of tariffs has loomed large over Canada since President Trump was elected and since his inauguration the landscape changes regularly – creating uncertainty that is taking a toll on markets and the economy.

Taxpayers expect municipalities to look after communities by both providing critical daily services, and planning for a vibrant future.

Municipalities face a range of financial challenges. Municipal governments must find a way to make current resources go further.