As the new year begins, Brampton residents are gearing up for a series of critical developments. Here’s a closer look at four significant stories that are set to shape 2025.
Property Tax Hikes Loom Amid Budget Uncertainty
Brampton’s 2025 property tax rates remain a pressing concern as the city finalizes its budget under the “strong mayor” system. Residents should brace for a notable increase due to Peel Regional Police’s substantial 23.3% budget hike, which includes funding for 300 new officers and support staff.
Although the Region of Peel has proposed a 5.5% tax hike, disruptions within regional council, including a cancelled December budget meeting, have delayed final approvals. Brampton’s budget deliberations are expected to conclude in early 2025, shedding light on how these changes will impact homeowners.
Will the Hazel McCallion LRT Finally Open?
The long-anticipated Hazel McCallion Light Rail Transit (LRT) line remains in limbo. Originally slated for completion in 2024, the $4.5-billion project has been delayed by supply chain issues and technical challenges faced by Mobilinx, the construction consortium.
While significant construction progress has been reported, Metrolinx has yet to provide a revised opening date for the 19-stop, 18-km line connecting Port Credit to Brampton Gateway Terminal. The project’s second phase, which includes extensions into downtown Brampton and a Square One loop, also awaits further details.
Peel Memorial Expansion: Construction Delays Persists
The much-needed transformation of the Peel Memorial Urgent Care Centre into Brampton’s second full-service hospital continues to face setbacks. Despite initial plans to break ground in 2023, early construction is now expected to begin in spring 2025.
This project promises to alleviate pressure on Brampton Civic Hospital, currently the city’s only full-service hospital with one of the busiest emergency rooms in Ontario. The expansion will introduce an additional 250 beds and a second emergency room, but a revised timeline for completion has yet to be announced.
Brampton Prepares for Regional Road Takeover
Brampton is set to assume control of regional roads and stormwater infrastructure from the Region of Peel on July 1, 2026. As preparations for this transition ramp up, city council will need to address how the added responsibilities will affect local taxpayers.
The transfer follows the Ontario government’s reversal of plans to dissolve the Region of Peel and make Brampton, Mississauga, and Caledon independent municipalities. Additional service transfers, including waste collection and water services, are under consideration, with further announcements expected in 2025.