Oakville Council approves 2026 budget with focus on resilience and sustainability

At last night’s meeting, Council unanimously adopted the 2026 Budget, reinforcing their commitment to keeping tax impacts below inflation while planning for future challenges. The 1.96 per cent overall property tax increase is well under the 2026 inflation forecast, and remains the lowest among neighbouring municipalities, even with the new stormwater fee.

Impact on property taxes 

For every dollar you pay in property taxes, about 44 cents go to Town services, 38 cents to Halton Region, and 18 cents to education. With the 2026 budget, this means an increase of about $16.33 for every $100,000 of your property’s assessed value. For example, if your home is assessed at $800,000, your property taxes would go up by about $130.64, for a total of approximately $6,807.68 in 2026.

Key investments for resiliency

To help keep the tax increase low, Oakville will introduce a dedicated stormwater fee in 2026 as part of the Rainwater Management Plan. This fee replaces stormwater costs currently included in property taxes, creating a fairer and more sustainable funding model.

The 2026 budget also invests $2 million in stormwater resiliency projects, with an additional $89.2 million planned through 2035 to strengthen Oakville’s stormwater system and protect the community from flooding and severe weather. Learn more about the stormwater fee, how it applies to different property types, and how it helps fund flood protection, climate resiliency, and a sustainable future for Oakville.

Other major investments 

The approved budget focuses on maintaining and improving essential services, planning for growth, and supporting community well-being. This includes: 

• $70.6 million for the construction of the new Central Library, a key component of the Downtown Cultural Hub plan
• $38.0 million for Trafalgar Urban Core South Community Centre land purchase
• $20.6 million for North Service Road widening with active transportation
• $16.8 million for Wyecroft Road widening with active transportation
• $16.2 million for Speers Road widening with active transportation
• $15.8 million for stormwater management infrastructure
• $13.6 million for the renewal and rehabilitation of parks, trails, and related facilities
• $13.1 million for maintenance to parking lots, driveways, and Town facilities
• $11.1 million to expand the Transit fleet
• $8.1 million to initiate streetscape enhancements in Bronte Village and Lower Kerr Village
• $7.6 million for road resurfacing and preservation
• $5.7 million to develop new neighbourhood parks, parkettes, and trails
• $4.1 million to support the Town’s tree canopy and natural environment through initiatives such as the Emerald Ash Borer program, invasive species control, woodlot maintenance, and tree planting
• $2.5 million for traffic calming and road safety measures to promote safe travel

How will the 2026 budget be used?

For every $100 in property taxes collected by the Town of Oakville, residents help fund essential community services: 

• $19 for maintaining and renewing infrastructure
• $19 for emergency services like fire and public safety
• $16 for Oakville Transit
• $12 for building and maintaining road networks
• $10 for parks and green spaces
• $8 for recreation and cultural programs
• $5 for the Oakville Public Library
• $3 for community development initiatives

These decisions reflect Council’s commitment to keeping taxes affordable while investing in the infrastructure, services, and programs that make Oakville a vibrant and livable community. For more information about the 2026 Budget, including a full list of investments and itemized details, visit the Budget Documents page. 

Quotes

“This budget reflects our commitment to keeping Oakville affordable and livable while planning for the future. By holding the tax increase well below inflation and the lowest in the region, we’re making strategic investments in infrastructure, transit, and community spaces to ensure Oakville remains one of Ontario’s most desirable communities."
– Mayor Rob Burton

"Our priority was clear: keep taxes affordable while investing in the services residents depend on. Introducing the stormwater fee is a forward-thinking solution that ensures fairness and funds the infrastructure we need to manage future climate challenges."
– Town and Regional Councillor and 2026 Budget Chair, Tom Adams 

"The 2026 budget is about preparing Oakville for tomorrow. From new libraries and community centres to improved roads and transit, these investments strengthen our foundation and support a vibrant, connected, and resilient Town for generations to come."
– Town Councillor and 2026 Budget Vice-Chair, Jonathan McNeice