Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown has unveiled the city’s proposed 2026 budget, marking his third under Ontario’s strong-mayor legislation, with a combined property tax increase of 4.81 per cent for residents.
The proposal includes a 1.5 per cent increase on the City of Brampton’s portion of the tax bill. When combined with the Region of Peel’s previously approved 3.31 per cent hike, the total increase would amount to 4.81 per cent in 2026. For an average home assessed at $543,506, the city’s increase would add about $111 annually and generate roughly $23.7 million in additional revenue.
Brown said the budget prioritizes affordability, public safety, infrastructure, and recreation, while maintaining what he described as strong financial health despite economic pressures such as a $26-million drop in Brampton Transit fare revenue, the province’s automated speed camera ban, and ongoing Canada–U.S. trade tensions.
“This budget keeps Brampton on solid financial footing,” Brown said, noting the city has retained its AAA credit rating and is making increased contributions to reserves.
The proposed budget includes a $1.038-billion capital budget and a $340.4-million operating budget. A one per cent hospital levy introduced in 2022 to support the city’s second full-service hospital and a proposed cancer treatment centre will remain in place.
Public safety funding features prominently, with money allocated for 22 new bylaw enforcement officers to support initiatives such as the citywide expansion of the residential rental licensing (RRL) program. Brown said additional resources for bylaw enforcement and fire prevention are aimed at cracking down on unsafe and illegal practices.
The budget also emphasizes investment in parks, community infrastructure, and recreation, which Brown described as essential to promoting healthy lifestyles.
Public consultations and budget deliberations will continue throughout January, with final approval expected on Jan. 27. Under strong-mayor powers, councillors may propose amendments, but the mayor can veto changes unless overridden by a two-thirds council vote.