Скачать или смотреть From Housing to Healthcare: Economic Uncertainty and Rising Costs Challenge Simcoe County in 2026

Simcoe County is heading into 2026 facing significant budget pressures, economic uncertainty, and growing demand for essential services.

From inflation and U.S. tariffs to labour shortages and shifting funding models, municipalities across the region are being forced to make difficult financial decisions.

The County provides a range of critical services — including affordable housing, long-term care, childcare, social services, and paramedic response — many of which are purchased by municipalities from Barrie to Midland. As costs rise and needs increase, maintaining service levels while balancing local and regional priorities remains one of the County’s biggest challenges.

Jay Fallis, Orillia Councillor and representative at Simcoe County, underlined the challenges and complexities of maintaining these services.