Mayor Brian Ostrander and MPP David Piccini deliver remarks at the groundbreaking ceremony for Brighton's new $52M wastewater treatment plant. /Sarah Hyatt/MBC
When it comes to securing external grant funding, it’s been a banner year for the Municipality of Brighton to the tune of more than $35 million, say officials.
As previously reported, Brighton secured a historic $34.9 million through the province’s Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund to support a modernized mechanical sewage treatment plant, which is supposed to last the community 50 years and tackle long-standing compliance issues, particularly around effluent quality standards and ammonia levels. The provincial injection is also supposed to help unlock development and up to 3,000 new housing units.
But in 2025, that’s not the only successful grant the municipality has secured, according to municipal staff.
“The Municipality of Brighton remains committed to pursuing strategic funding opportunities to support key projects outlined in its 2023-26 strategic plan,” said staff. “Throughout 2025, the municipality has successfully secured over $35,029,221 in external grant funding.”
A total of seven funding applications were successful this year, including the massive provincial boost. However, there were several other wins, including another provincial $16,822 fire protection grant to support new personal protective equipment (PPE) for Brighton Fire and Rescue and help meet regulations under the National Fire Protection Association.
Another $4,000 was donated by the Brighton Legion’s Ladies Auxiliary to purchase a fully equipped first-responders’ medical bag and “split Ferno basket” (stretcher equipment) to help with high-priority patient care when responding to medical calls in remote areas, said staff.
Another $10,000 funnelled through Canadian Heritage funding to help with Canada Day festivities at King Edward Park, and $800 from the Brian Todd Memorial Community Fund helped with the purchase of play equipment at the Brighton Public Library.
Through the Canada Summer Jobs grant stream, Brighton picked up a reported $9,202 to support student employment positions in the departments of public works and parks and rec, as well as with the DBIA and library.
Finally, staff said $10,000 was received through the Hydro One ice storm 2025 recovery grant program in support of cleanup after this year’s ice storm.
While thanking funding partners and community organizations for their help and investments, staff noted work continues.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
