The 2026 Mayor’s Budget schedule has been adjusted as directed by Mayor, Ross Kentner, to allow additional time for the Mayor to work closely with municipal staff. This change ensures the budget fully reflects the Mayor’s priorities while maintaining a tax levy increase that is balanced for ratepayers.
Strong Mayor Powers, introduced by the provincial government in 2025, gives the Mayor the responsibility to propose the municipal budget and allow Council the ability to propose amendments. This replaces the historical Council-led budget process. Given the significance of this transition, the revised timeline provides the necessary opportunity for collaboration and careful consideration.
Updated Key Dates for the 2026 Budget Process
- January 14, 2026, by 4:00 pm – Mayor’s Budget Shared
Early February 2026 – Budget Review Sessions (following the ROMA Conference, which brings together municipal councils across Ontario):
- February 2, 2026, at 9:00 am – Budget Review: Day 1 – Operating Budget Review
- February 3, 2026, at 9:00 am – Budget Review: Day 2 – Capital Budget Review
- February 6, 2026, at 9:00 am – Budget Review: Day 3 – User Fees, Service Partners, and Final Budget Review
“The budget will be deemed adopted once the process concludes, as required under the Strong Mayors Legislation. These changes reflect our commitment to a thoughtful and transparent process during this transition year,” said the municipality.
