Understanding Your Municipal Taxes
Municipal taxes are essential to allow each municipality to meet the needs of its residents and ensure the well-being of the community. In Hawkesbury, as in all Ontario municipalities, tax rates are set by the Municipal Council based on the community’s priorities, while taking into consideration the available resources.
Each year, the Council of the Town of Hawkesbury reviews and adopts a budget to cover the costs of municipal services. The goal is always to meet the community’s needs and improve residents’ quality of life, while remaining fiscally responsible with taxpayer dollars.
Municipal taxes are calculated by applying a tax rate to the assessed value of your property. This allows the Town to pool resources, offer more services, and maintain essential infrastructure.
How Are Taxes Distributed?
When you pay your property taxes, your contribution is first divided among different levels of government:
- 67% → Town of Hawkesbury
- 25% → United Counties of Prescott and Russell (regional level)
- 8% → School boards
After this initial distribution, the Town sets its budget priorities. Factors such as inflation, provincial obligations, infrastructure conditions, and rising costs, influence how funds are allocated to each service. Priorities may shift year to year based on evolving community needs.
Where Does the Municipal Portion Go?
The Town’s share (67% of your total property taxes) is redistributed across various municipal services. Some expenses are mandatory, imposed by the Province of Ontario, while others reflect local needs and priorities.
Here’s the current breakdown of the municipal budget:
1. Transportation & Road Infrastructure (22.1%)
A significant portion of the budget supports transportation and road infrastructure. The Town maintains, rehabilitates and completes snow removal on over 60 km of roads and 32 km of sidewalks—often exceeding provincial standards. Equipment maintenance and rising material costs require ongoing investment. In addition, recent equipment upgrades were necessary to continue ensuring reliable snow removal services. Several infrastructures, many over 50 years old, also require major upgrades. For example, in 2025, capital projects in this category include: the construction of the new municipal garage, the reconstruction of Catherine Street, the rehabilitation of the Cécile Bridge, and the design phase for the reconstruction projects of Main Street West and Tessier Street.
Furthermore, the Asset Management Plan completed in 2024 clearly defined the Town of Hawkesbury’s long-term priorities to continue providing quality facilities and services. Each year, to maintain these assets and anticipate future needs, the Town must also contribute to a reserve fund equivalent to 2% of the annual budget.
2. Recreation & Culture (21.2%)
Recreation and culture are at the heart of community life in Hawkesbury, with the municipal budget prioritizing park maintenance, green spaces, and facility upkeep—including municipal buildings like Maison de l’Île, the Sports Complex, park chalets, public washrooms, and general maintenance of municipal lots. Since 2021, park and facility usage has increased by 15%, highlighting the growing importance of these spaces. The Sports Complex—with its pool, multifunctional room, and ice rink—hosts over 25,000 users and 2,500 hours of ice time annually. Capital projects continue to invest in facility improvements to maintain service levels, support active lifestyles, and foster community connection. The Town continues to invest in improving its infrastructure, supporting an active lifestyle, strengthening community ties, and stimulating the local economy through a diverse range of cultural activities and events.
Police Services (18.4%)
The Ontario Provincial Police (O.P.P.) provides the Town with law enforcement and public safety services as provided for by the Community Safety and Policing Act, 2019. The Town receives an invoice based on the OPP Billing Model, which mainly consists of two components: Base Services and Calls for Service.
Basic services include proactive policing activities such as routine patrols, enforcement of the Highway Traffic Act, victim assistance, crime prevention, liquor license enforcement, and judicial administration. They also cover training and administrative support. The cost of these services is calculated based on the number of properties in the municipality.
Calls for service refer to reactive police interventions when officer presence is required, for example in cases of assaults, fraud, vehicle collisions, missing persons, or domestic disturbances. These costs are determined using a provincial formula based on the historical volume of calls in the municipality.
Police services represent a significant budget item, reflecting the priority of maintaining a safe community. To learn more about this, please click on the following link: Ontario Provincial Police - Billing Model.
4. Municipal Public Safety (16.5%)
This category includes essential protection services that have a direct impact on residents’ safety, such as fire services and emergency response, dispatch operations to ensure rapid interventions, and the enforcement of municipal by-laws to maintain order and address community concerns. These investments enable the Town to respond effectively to emergencies while providing a safe and welcoming environment.
Unlike neighbouring municipalities with only a volunteer fire department, the Town has a team of professional firefighters on duty from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., complimented by volunteer firefighters. This allows for an excellent average response delay of 4 mins, as well as a guaranteed response (which is not the case in other areas). Within the firefighting team, the Town has staff dedicated to public education initiatives, fire prevention, and firefighter’s training and continuing education.
5. Administration (14.5%)
These administrative services ensure the smooth operation of the Town and high-quality service delivery. It includes Town Hall operations, customer service, financial management (including tax collection and budgeting), human resources, and governance, as well as the costs associated with maintaining and repairing the Town Hall and Library building. Though less visible day-to-day, administration is the backbone of all municipal services.
6. Library (3.7%)
The Hawkesbury Public Library enriches community life by providing access to literary and digital resources, educational programs, and workshops. It serves as a vital space for learning and connection.
7. Urban Planning (2.4%)
Urban planning guides the Town’s long-term development. It oversees land use and zoning to ensure responsible growth. Through the Official Plan, the department ensures strategic development aligned with community goals.
8. Storm Sewer Services (1.2%)
Though a smaller portion of the budget, storm sewer services are critical for public health and safety. They include storm network maintenance and upgrades to infrastructure.
Stormwater comes from rain or melting snow and ice. When it flows over land, it becomes runoff. In nature, runoff soaks into the soil, is absorbed by plants, or evaporates, however in developed areas (roads, buildings), hard surfaces block absorption, so water runs off into catch basins, picking up pollution along the way. Common stormwater problems include pollution - runoff can carry oil, garbage, and animal waste into rivers and streams - and flooding, when heavy storms can overwhelm storm sewers.
The Town manages stormwater in 3 principal ways :
· Stormwater retention ponds to hold and slowly release runoff, allowing pollutants to settle or break down.
· Underground tanks
· Culverts and roadside ditches
Effective stormwater management provides essential benefits to all Hawkesbury residents and businesses, including reduced flood risk, improved water quality in local ecosystems, and protection of vital drinking water sources.
Key Takeaways
Each year, the Town of Hawkesbury adjusts its budget to reflect community priorities, maintain essential services, and invest in the future. While some expenses are fixed due to provincial obligations or rising costs, Council continually listens to residents and strives to maximize services while minimizing budget increases. Committing to fiscal responsibility ensures sound management of your taxpayer dollars.
Your municipal taxes are more than just a payment—they’re a collective investment in the well-being, safety, and future of our community.
How to Pay Your Municipal Taxes More information on all methods of payment available here.
For any questions regarding payments, please contact infotaxes@hawkesbury.ca or call 613-632-1105.
Recent News
Christmas Market registration now available
Registration for the Christmas Market is now open! Reserve your booth and let your handcrafted creations shine in a festive atmosphere.
The communication survey is available now
Starting August 25, the communications survey is now available! This is your chance to share your communication preferences with us. We’re listening! Complete the survey and get a chance to win a $50 gift card.
The Sports Complex Fall Program is now available.
Each year, the Sports Complex is proud to offer a range of classes and programs for the whole family.
Emergency Municipal Infrastructure Work
Emergency municipal infrastructure work will take place tomorrow, August 27, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Confederation Park and Maison de l'Île.
Erratum regarding information published about parking on Stevens and Ghislain Streets.
At its meeting on August 11, the Town’s Council adopted Resolution R-144-25, following a request from a resident of Ghislain Street. The Council requested confirmation that this request was only to lift the no-parking restriction from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Ghislain and Stevens Streets, imposed in 2015 for all (including parking pass holders) during the construction period of the new hospital.
Emergency Municipal Infrastructure Work
Emergency municipal infrastructure work will take place tomorrow, August 21, 2025, from 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Mary Street, between Lansdowne and Aberdeen Streets.
Catherine Street Closure – Detours to Be Expected
Notice to Residents of the Town of Hawkesbury – Phase 1 of Water Meter Upgrade Program - beginning August 2025
The Town of Hawkesbury has contracted Neptune Technology Group to replace approximately 300 aging water meters across the town. This is a mandatory program in accordance with the Ontario Public Utilities Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. P.52.
Fire Ban
The Hawkesbury Fire Department has issued a total fire ban for the town of Hawkesbury as of this Friday Aug 8th, 2025.
Hawkesbury's Public Consultations
Your voice truly matters. By taking part in public consultations, you help shape municipal decisions and contribute to building a town that reflects your needs and expectations. Be part of the change - let's shape Hawkesbury into the thriving community we all envision!
Participate for a chance to win a $50 gift card to a local Hawkesbury business!
New library phone line
Please note that the library now has a direct phone line. You can reach the library at (613) 632-3681.
Hawkesbury 2046 Official Plan Public Survey
Thank you for engaging in the Hawkesbury 2046 Official Plan Project! The purpose of the Official Plan is to lay out the land use policy framework that guides growth and development within Hawkesbury. Participate in the survey for a chance to win a $50 gift card!
Road Closure for the Rehabilitation of the Cécile Bridge
Cécile Bridge Rehabilitation – Detours to Be Expected
The rehabilitation work on the Cécile Bridge will begin on August 11th and will last until November.
Redirecting Technical Services and Customer Service
Canadian Navigable Waters Act No Interference with Navigation Notice
The Corporation of the Town of Hawkesbury hereby gives notice that a submission has been added to the Common Project Search (online registry) pursuant to the Canadian Navigable Waters Act described herein and its description.
Fire Hydrant Floww Testing in Effect
Starting July 28,2025, the Environmental Service will be conducting essential fire hydrant flow testing throughout the Town of Hawkesbury.
Notice of Special In-Camera Meeting
Please note that there will be a special in-camera meeting on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at 4:00 p.m.
TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURES IN EFFECT
**Road closures has been moved from Thursday, July 17 to Friday, July 18 **
Redirecting Technical Services and Customer Service
Due to an air conditioning issue, the reception and technical services will be accessible only through Door 3 of City Hall, from July 14 to July 18.
Thank you for your understanding.
Protect yourself during extreme heat with these tips from the Eastern Ontario Health Unit.
Hot weather can be dangerous—especially for young children, seniors, and people with certain health conditions. Heat-related illnesses can strike fast, but the good news is: they’re preventable!
Photo Contest for the 2026 Calendar
You could win up to $250!
Une nouvelle infolettre est maintenant disponible !
Want to stay informed about news from the Town of Hawkesbury? Check out our newsletter!
Program changes to the Canada Day Activities
Please note that because of the weather, some changes has been made to the Canada Day Program
Notice of a Change of Date for a Town Council Meeting
ERRATUM – The date scheduled for the next Council Meeting is August 11, not August 18 as stated in the printed yearly calendar sent to residents.
Street Closures Due to Upcoming Festivities
Please note that there will be traffic disruptions related to the Multicultural Festival and preparations for Canada Day.
Raising of the inclusive intersex Pride flag
This Tuesday, June 24, the Town of Hawkesbury raised the inclusive intersex Pride flag in front of Town Hall in honor of Pride season.
Heat Wave Warning- Precautions are to be taken.
With the upcoming heat, the Town of Hawkesbury has set up a place where residents can cool off during the forecasted heatwaves.
NOTICE - Unidirectional Flushing of the drinking water distribution system
Starting Monday, June 2, 2025, the Environmental Service will proceed to its annual unidirectional flushing program of the drinking water distribution system. It will be performed from Monday to Friday, between 7 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., for an approximate period of 5 weeks. The flushing program schedule can be found at the end of this notice.
NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF COUNCIL FOR THE OFFICIAL PLAN REVIEW
TAKE NOTICE THAT the Town of Hawkesbury has initiated a review of its Official Plan and will hold a Special Meeting of the Council, open to the public, under Section 26(3)(b) of the Planning Act, R.S.O. 1990, to discuss possible revisions to the Official Plan that may be required and provide the public with an opportunity to provide comments.
A new Strategic Plan to Support Hawkesbury's Progress
During the municipal Council meeting held on Monday May 12th, Council officially adopted the Town of Hawkesbury's 2025-2030 Strategic Plan.
Summer 2025 Registration - Aqua Bike and Aqua Forme
Registration for the summer session of aquatic courses begins on Friday, May 16 at 8 a.m.! Reserve your spot early!
Special Collections – Starting soon!
The first special collections will begin the week of May 26th!
Boat launch parking passes available starting on May 5
Please note that a parking pass is required to access the boat launches located at Confederation Park and Cyr-de-La-Salle Park.
These passes will be available very soon, at a discounted rate for residents, and also offered to non-residents.
Public Survey Results Shape the Bench Project in Downtown Hawkesbury
As part of the public survey held in February and March, the public was invited to vote on their preferred locations for the upcoming Main St. bench project. Thanks to your participation, the top eight most-voted spots have now been determined.
Closed for the Easter Weekend
🐣 Easter Schedule – Town of Hawkesbury 🐣
Please note that Town Hall will be closed on Friday, April 18 and Monday, April 21 for the Easter long weekend.
Temporary Telephone Service Interruption
Starting at 1 p.m on April 11, a temporary telephone service interruption will affect several Town services.
Outdoor courts availalbe starting April 15, 2025
Great news for outdoor sports enthusiasts!
The outdoor courts at the Hawkesbury Sports Complex will officially open on April 15th!
Whether you're a fan of tennis or pickleball, take advantage of our beautiful outdoor courts
Weather Alert – Significant Ice Accumulation This Sunday
Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for the weekend due to a significant accumulation of ice caused by freezing rain.
Notice for special meeting
The Municipal Council of the Corporation of the Town of Hawkesbury will hold a special meeting on the 25th of March 2025, at 11:30 a.m. at Town Hall, 600 Higginson Street.
Notice of public hearing - Minor Variance Committee
The Minor Variance Committee for the Town of Hawkesbury will hold a public hearing at the Town Hall, 600 Higginson Street, Hawkesbury, at 6:00 p.m. on March 31, 2025
Les inscriptions aux cours d'aquatique - Printemps 2025
Registrations for the Spring 2025 session will be available starting March 21. To book the course of your choice, visit the Amilia platform.
À la recherche de membres pour le Comité d'accessibilité
The Municipal Council is seeking individuals interested in serving on the Town’s Accessibility Committee. If you have expertise you wish to share with the Town or qualifications that support the Committee’s mandate, we invite you to submit your interest by April 14, 2025.
Outdoor skating rinks are now closed for the winter season
It's with great regret that the outdoor rink season is now finished.
March Break Activities
March Break is often a time for family activities. That’s why the Town of Hawkesbury offers several time slots for various family-friendly activities. Check the schedule to learn more!
Regsitration for Yoga and Spinning Classes
Registration for the Spring Session
It’s time to sign up for the spring session starting on March 18!
Survey - Bench placement on Main st East
The purpose of this short survey is to obtain feedback from the public on the proposed locations for the installation of benches in Hawkesbury's downtown core. This survey will close March 26th 2025.
Notice for special meeting
Pool closure
The pool will exceptionally be closed today, Thursday, February 13. All other facilities at the Robert Hartley Sports Complex are now open. Consult Amilia for the activities available.
Winter Storm
Considering the winter storm in effect, please be cautious on the roads and avoid non-essential travel. The Town’s crews are working diligently to maintain roadways, provide services and ensure public safety. Please be patient as snow removal and waste collection may take longer than usual.
Facility Closures Due to Weather
For the safety of our staff and residents, Town Hall will be closed to the public today, Thursday, February 13 and the Robert Hartley Sports Complex will open later than usual, at 1 p.m.
Hawkesbury Public Library is Hiring!
The Hawkesbury Library is looking for a Director to join its dynamic team.
Emergency municipal infrastructure work on February 3, 2025, between 11:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m
NOTICE FOR
600 AU 762 RUE BERTHIAUME
This notice is to inform you that there will be emergency municipal infrastructure work being performed today,February 3, 2025, between 11:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Please follow the signs in order to detour the working zone.
Le programmes de soutien aux organismes communautaires est maintenant disponible !
La Ville de Hawkesbury estime que la force d’une communauté réside dans la santé et le bien-être de ses résidents, elle met en place, chaque année, une initiative permettant d’appuyer les organismes communautaires sous différentes formes. Ce soutien vise à renforcer les liens entre la Ville et ces organismes. Les organismes sont invités à soumettre leur demande de soutien entre le 1er février et le 31 mars 2025. Le formulaire sera disponible au lien suivant : https://www.hawkesbury.ca/fr/loisirs-et-communaut%C3%A9/dans-ma-communaut%C3%A9/programme-de-soutien-aux-organismes.
Emergency municipal infrastructure work on January 20, 2025, between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m
NOTICE FOR
658 TO 747 PORTELANCE AVENUE
512 TO 518 JAMES STREETT
his notice is to inform you that there will be emergency municipal infrastructure work being performed today, January 20, 2025, between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Please follow the signs in order to detour the working zone.
Support Program is coming soon. Are you recognized?
The Town of Hawkesbury believes that the strength of a community lies in the health and well-being of its residents, it implements an annual initiative to support community organizations in various ways. This support aims to strengthen the ties between the Town and these organizations. Organizations are invited to submit their support applications between February 1 and March 31, 2025. Before submitting a Support Program Application you need to be recognized by the Town,. The process in ongoing until Februray 20, 2025.
Utility bills arriving soon!
Next week, keep an eye on your mail for your utility bills. Inside, you will also find our newsletter.
New at the Sports Complex!
Looking to try something different? It's completely free!
📅 Open every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Outdoor skating rinks are now open for the winter 2025 season
Let’s embrace winter with our outdoor skating rinks! Two out of three rinks are now open.
Happy Holidays from the Town of Hawkesbury
During this season of celebration and sharing, we want to thank all residents for their essential role in fostering the vitality and solidarity of our community.
2025 Calendar
Come get your copy of the Town of Hawkesbury's 2025 calendar!
2024 Holiday Schedule for the Town of Hawkesbury
Please note that from December 24 till January 3, 2025, some services will have modified hours during the holiday season.
FoodCycler
93 % of participants would recommend the FoodCycler. Get yours today !
2025 Waste collection calendar
How to get your 2025 waste collection calendar
Notice of passing of zoning By-law N° 72-2024 et N° 73-2024
The Council of the Town of Hawkesbury passed By-law N° 72-2024 and N° 73-2024to amend Zoning By-Law N° 20-2018, at a meeting held on December 9, 2024, under Section 17 of the Planning Act, RSO 1990, c. P.13, as amended
Launch of the Town of Hawkesbury's New Website
Hawkesbury, le 12 décembre 2024 – La Ville de Hawkesbury est fière d’annoncer le lancement tant attendu de son nouveau site web, maintenant disponible à tous.
The Ontario Energy Commission will hold a public hearing.
The Ontario Energy Commission will hold a public hearing, and there are three ways to participate: oral hearings, electronic hearings, and written hearings. Those interested have until December 20th to express their intention to participate in this hearing.
The Town of Hawkesbury's 2025 budget adopted, subject to revision
At the December 9th Town Council meeting, the 2025 budget was adopted, subject to an upcoming revision due to a recent announcement regarding the increase in costs related to the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP).
Winter collection instructions
Optimal garbage placement can get tricky in the winter. Here are some reminders about bin placement and ways to facilitate collection and snow removal operations.
A Festive Day in Hawkesbury: December 7 Recap
On December 7, Hawkesbury embraced the holiday spirit with two fantastic events that drew hundreds of residents and visitors. Let's talk about the Christmas Market and the Santa Claus Parade.
A Look Back at Yesterday’s Vernissage in Hawkesbury!
Despite our first storm of the season, six brave participants came out to showcase their beautiful creations at the pop-up exhibit held at the Hawkesbury Sports Complex. Their dedication and enthusiasm to share their creativity with the community truly brightened the day!
Service Line Warranty Canada (SLWC) Spring Campaign Offer
Back in September 2022, the Town partnered with SLWC to offer Hawkesbury homeowners protection plans to help cover the potentially expensive repair costs associated with their portion of water and sewer service lines. These plans, offered by SWLC, are used by over 1000 cities, municipalities, and utilities across North America, including over 65 in Ontario.
Public meeting notice - Zoning By-Law
Zoning By-law Amendment for 157 and 189 John St.
Notice for public meeting
Changing of Pilon and Bruneau St. names.
Local Government Week
Each year, Ontario celebrates Local Government Week during the third week of October to raise public and youth awareness about the critical role local governments play in our communities. This year, Local Government Week takes place from October 21 to 25.
New Grant for Emergency Preparedness
The Town of Hawkesbury is pleased to announce that it has received a $50,000 grant as part of the Community Emergency Preparedness Gran Program. This amount has been invested in the purchase of an emergency generator for the Sports Complex, which is designated as a shelter during emergency situations.
Notice for public meeting
NOTICE OF A COMPLETE APPLICATION AND OF A PUBLIC MEETING CONCERNING A PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO
ZONING BY-LAW N° 20-2018 (D14-146)
Door-to-Door Fraud Network Dismantled in Hawkesbury
The Town of Hawkesbury By-law Officers and the OPP take action
Arrival of Biciti+
A new application designed to give citizens easier access to municipal and community information
Together for the Future of Hawkesbury: Strategic Planning Survey
Starting August 22, the Town of Hawkesbury is launching a public consultation as an essential step in the process of developing a new strategic plan. This is the perfect opportunity for you to help shape the vision of your Town for the coming years.
Public Consultation Forum for the Town of Hawkesbury's Strategic Plan
Starting August 22, the Town of Hawkesbury is launching a public consultation as an essential step in the process of developing a new strategic plan. This is the perfect opportunity for you to help shape the vision of your Town for the coming years.
Quarterly newsletter
Stay informed and connected with all the latest updates from the Town of Hawkesbury!
Leaf and Yard Waste
Learn more about the leaf and yard waste collections and the 2024 pilot project.
Survey - Town’s infrastructure and levels of service
Start with our first survey about the Town’s infrastructure and levels of service today!
Participate for a chance to win a $100 gift card! The draw will take place at the end of the July 2024.
Ontario Working for you
MPP Stéphane Sarrazin has announced funding to replace and upgrade three traffic lights in Hawkesbury!
FoodCycler™ Program
The in-home food waste diversion solution.
Changes To the Use of the Garbage OOPS Notifications
As of June 3, 2024, the OOPS notifications will NO LONGER be left by the collectors for issues with garbage bin placement.
New Soccer Nets at the Sidney Park
New soccer nets have just been installed at the Sidney Park !!
Bulky Waste Collection
Guide to a successful bulky waste collection.
