Budget Process

The annual budget process and who is involved.

The budget process is about offering valued programs, making strategic investments in infrastructure and keeping property taxes as low as possible.

It makes sure the town’s resources are spent wisely and brings the Strategic Plan to life by providing funds to move action plans forward.

2026 Budget Approval Process

Budget Decision Making

Mayoral 2026 Budget Direction

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New Budget Chair and Vice Chair appointed as Mayor sets direction

At the June 17, 2025 meeting, the Town’s Budget Committee received the preliminary forecast for the 2026 Budget. While the preliminary forecast prepared by staff projects an overall tax bill increase of 3.97 per cent, Mayor Burton, with the support of Council, has directed staff to prepare an operating budget with a tax levy increase of up to 3.50 per cent. This forecast reflects the need to balance strategic priorities, economic conditions, and rising costs in a complex financial environment.

Over the next several months Town staff will be refining the operating and capital budgets with a focus on Council’s strategic priorities. This process will lead to a staff prepared budget going forward to the Budget Committee for review this fall in line with the Mayor’s direction.

To learn more, read the full news release.

2026 Budget: Key dates

  • June 17 to September 24: Budget Committee consults residents on budget (Public consultation)
  • September 24: Budget Committee receives feedback from members on public consultation
  • October 21 and 23: Staff present draft budget to Budget Committee based on Mayor's direction
  • October 24 to November 26: Budget Committee consults residents on draft budget
  • Week of November 3: Councillors and staff budget consultation sessions
  • November 11 and 13: Budget Committee for Councillors to inquire of staff and to receive public delegations (Public consultation)
  • November 27: Budget Committee recommendations to Mayor (including staff responses to requests)
  • December 4: Special Council meeting for Mayor to provide proposed 2026 Budget to Council and public
  • December 11: Special Council meeting to public delegations on Mayor's proposed budget (Public consultation)
  • December 15: Special Council Meeting to consider the proposed 2026 Budget
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About the Budget process

  • This process is based on Bill 3, Strong Mayors, Building Homes Act, 2022, Strong Mayor Powers 
Budget & Finances

Stay up to date!

Watch past Budget meetings on YouTube

Check out our 2025 Budget Committee playlist to re-watch recent meetings.

Go to the town's YouTube channel

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