Lake of Bays ups service charges and fees

Among the changes are increases for credit card processing

Lake of Bays Lake of Bays approved the adoption of a new Fees and Charges By-law, in the December 9, 2025, meeting.

The By-law was approved following the municipality's annual review of service fees across multiple departments.

As part of the review conducted by the Township, staff analyzed existing fees and recommended changes in several areas.

Staff advised that changes to the by-law will include a 3% processing fee for use of credit card payments to ensure transparency for residents who choose to pay for municipal services this way.

Recommendations also included removing the option for CD or USB copies, as most permitted information is now provided digitally through secure electronic means.

Staff reported that this update modernizes service delivery and eliminates outdated physical formats.

According to the staff report, the fees and charges are applicable “for payment of municipal services, activities and use of municipal property.”

The report explains the update which also reflects Council's commitment to accountability, transparency, and maintaining a fee structure that is fair, current, and aligned with the true cost of delivering municipal services.

It adds that the review process began with a public Notice of Intention issued on November 24, 2025, in accordance with the Township's Provision of Notice Policy.

Staff indicated that residents were notified of the proposed changes through the Township's website, social media channels, and local news outlets.

They reported that the newly approved By-law replaces the 2024 version and updates related by-laws to ensure consistency across all municipal services and fee schedules.

Mayor, Terry Glover, said, “It’s good to see the fees are being reviewed.”

He added that the revenue helps keep their community centres running.

Visit the Town’s website for the list of fees and charges for Township services at lakeofbays.on.ca.