Property tax bills are increasing in 2026. Town of Brome Lake (TBL), West Bolton and other communities made public their budgets in January.
A prudent first budget for Town of Brome Lake
In the case of TBL, the first budget of the Patterson team reflects a prudent approach to managing municipal finances. While rates in many towns are increasing (more than 6% in West Bolton), the increase in TBL is closer to 2.5 percent, below cost-of-living estimates.
The Patterson budget focuses on disciplined management and the basics of running the municipality. It also includes forecasts for some much-needed major capital investments over the next few years like a new fire station, improved water treatment and sidewalks.
Sûreté du Québec services are the most eye-popping line item in the budget; TBL is paying the SQ close to $3 million in 2026 – 8.9 per cent more than last year – with no improvement in police services in sight.
The budget signals a solid start to Patterson’s administration.
Challenges ahead
The bigger tests are yet to come. What vision will the administration bring to major projects? How will it handle urban planning challenges including the look and feel of new development? How will TBL address the need for more affordable housing? How will it improve quality of life? How efficiently will the administration meet the needs and expectations of residents?
The real challenge for the Patterson administration will be not only to manage finances responsibly, but also bring new vision, rigour and creativity to solving some real problems like urban planning and zoning.
Another challenge: In the run-up to the November municipal elections in TBL, there was much talk of the need for “affordable” housing and attracting young people to the area. The TBL budget is silent on those issues.
The reality is that living here is less and less affordable for many retirees, long-time residents and young people. A TBL property valued at $350,000 in 2015 is valued at $772,000 today – out of reach for the average Quebec salary.
Many are looking forward to seeing how the administration addresses this issue and others.
It is encouraging to see the new Patterson team taking a disciplined approach to budgeting. It is a great start. Now the tougher work begins.