Alnwick/Haldimand Township Mayor John Logel is encouraging residents to seek information from official municipal sources following what he describes as an increase in misinformation and unverified claims circulating on social media regarding municipal taxes.
In a statement released June 1, Logel said social media can be a useful tool for sharing information but can also contribute to confusion and division when inaccurate information is shared. He urged residents to verify information before reposting it and to consult official Township communications for updates and clarification.
A significant portion of the statement focused on concerns surrounding the Township’s 2026 Tax Rate By-law.
According to Logel, the by-law does not represent a new budget or an increase beyond what council approved earlier this year. Instead, he said it is a legislative requirement that allows the municipality to collect property taxes and generate the revenue needed to fund the 2026 budget approved by council on February 11.
The mayor noted the budget process included public consultation, surveys, meetings, and educational sessions between December 2025 and February 2026. He also stated there have been no increases to the approved municipal levy since the budget was adopted and that the Township’s residential tax rate remains 5.09 per cent.
Logel said Township staff reviewed the tax calculations and confirmed at a special council meeting on May 29 that June tax bills accurately reflect the approved budget.
The Township is encouraging residents with questions about their tax notices to contact municipal staff directly for assistance and clarification.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
