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The Municipality of Meaford has completed a full refresh of its Community Improvement Plan (CIP) for 2026. The updated CIP improves clarity, simplifies application processes, and better supports key community priorities, including housing creation, heritage conservation, sustainability improvements, accessibility upgrades, and rural and downtown beautification. 

The refreshed CIP is now active. Applications are open for eligible programs according to annual intake cycles and available budgets. 

View the notice of adoption 

Apply now 

About the Community Improvement Plan 

A Community Improvement Plan is an economic development tool enacted by Council under Section 28 of the Planning Act. It allows municipalities to provide financial incentives such as grants, rebates, and tax relief to encourage private sector investment that supports broader community goals. 

Meaford’s CIP applies to the entire municipality, with the exception of the 4th Canadian Division Training Centre. 

The 2026 update focuses on: 

  • Simplifying program descriptions 
  • Providing clearer eligibility rules 
  • Improving transparency in how applications are assessed 
  • Setting defined limits for combined benefits 
  • Modernizing programs to better support community needs 

Past Community Improvement Projects 

The Community Improvement Plan has supported a wide range of projects across the Municipality of Meaford. These improvements help strengthen local businesses, preserve heritage features, enhance accessibility, and contribute to the overall vibrancy of our community. 

This gallery highlights some of the successful projects completed through past CIP funding. Each example shows how municipal incentives can help transform properties and support community improvement goals. 

15 Berry Street 

Two‑storey white building on a snowy street, with visible power lines, parked vehicles, and a sloped roof partially covered in snow.

   A grey-painted multi‑storey commercial building with brightly coloured door frames, outdoor seating, and a red patio umbrella on a sunny day.

  • Façade improvement Grant
  • Building Permit Grant
  • Planning Application and Parkland Dedication Fee-Equivalent Grant
  • Environmental Study Grant
  • Energy Efficiency Retrofit Grant

72 Sykes Street North

Front view of a spa and tanning studio with large street‑level windows, black exterior trim, and an oval orange sign above the entrance.       Street‑level view of a pub with a black facade and a sign reading “The Dam Pub” above the entrance, set between two older brick buildings.

  • Façade Improvement Grant and Loan 
  • Building Permit Fee Grant Program
  • Upgrade to Building Code for Accessibility loan Program
  • Energy Efficiency Retrofit Grant loan

26 Nelson St E

A historic brick firehall with three red garage doors and a tall central tower, photographed from the street in front of an open paved area.           A restored historic brick firehall with arched windows, a central tower, and bright red double doors, with “Station 87” displayed above the entrance.

  • Building Permit Fee Grant Program            
  • Tax Increment Equivalent Grant
  • Energy Efficiency Retrofit Grant loan

Available Incentive Programs 

The refreshed CIP includes a suite of programs designed to encourage investment in priority areas. Incentives are available to commercial property owners, housing developers and builders, agricultural operators, not-for-profit housing organizations, and other eligible applicants. 

Programs include: 

  • Building and Land Improvement Grant 
  • Plans and Studies Grant 
  • Municipal Fees and Charges Rebate 
  • Tax Increment Equivalent Relief 
  • Brownfield Tax Assistance 
  • Additional supports for heritage preservation, accessibility upgrades, and sustainability improvements 

Program descriptions, eligibility rules, and application requirements can be found in the 2026 CIP document linked below. 

Application Intake Dates 

Some programs accept applications on a first-come, first-served basis until annual funding is allocated. Others have fixed intake deadlines. 

Building and Land Improvement Grant intake dates: 

  • March 15
  • September 15 

Applicants are encouraged to review program details early and contact staff for guidance before submitting. 

Application Steps 

Pre-Application Consultation  
Applicants are required to arrange and participate in pre-application consultation meetings with Municipal staff to discuss application requirements, program eligibility, project timing and scope of work.  
Submit Application

After the consultation, the applicant will be required to submit a completed application, which will include all the application forms in addition to any supporting documentation, as required by the Municipality.  

Apply now 
Application Review & Evaluation  
Once all required forms and supporting materials are received, staff will undertake a preliminary screening of the application. If the application clearly does not meet the program requirements, it will not be accepted.  
Application Approval  
If the application meets the program requirements, the application will be accepted. Acceptance does not guarantee financial incentive approval, only that it will be reviewed by the Council or a delegated approval authority for final financial approval.  
Project Work Begins  
Once an application has been approved, an agreement is signed, and the required permits are in place, the applicant may commence the improvement works.  
Completed Work  
Once the project work is complete, the applicant must submit photos, invoices, and proof of payment for all eligible work completed.  
Payment
Following the proof of work and provided all program requirements continue to be met, Municipal Staff will issue payment of the approved grant. 

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