Toronto city council concluded its final meeting of 2025 this week, approving measures that include a higher tax on luxury home sales, steps to speed up the Finch LRT, and changes to the city’s heat relief plan, while debating e-bikes and a proposed TTC money-back guarantee.
Council passed Mayor Olivia Chow’s plan to increase the municipal land transfer tax on homes selling for more than $3 million, a move expected to generate an additional $13.8 million next year. The tax hike comes as the city prepares for a tight 2026 budget and relies on stable luxury home sales.
Councillors also approved adding 20 kilometres of new cycling infrastructure over the next two years, though plans to redesign Parkside Drive were paused to comply with provincial rules.
On e-scooters and e-bikes, council rejected giving police direct seizure powers, opting instead to have staff propose new enforcement options to curb sidewalk riding. A report is expected next year.
A proposal to refund TTC fares when delays exceed 15 minutes was referred to the transit agency for further study, amid concerns about cost and implementation challenges.
Council also backed legal action to oppose a controversial ravine-side condo development, adopted reforms to social assistance repayment rules, ordered changes to speed up the Finch LRT, and fast-tracked a bylaw to limit maximum indoor temperatures for tenants ahead of summer 2026.