Brantford Mayor Kevin Davis has released the City of Brantford’s 2025 Operating and Capital Budgets, which will be presented for Council’s consideration on January 14, 2025. The proposed budget maintains existing services while making strategic investments to enhance the city’s infrastructure, safety, and quality of life.
The 2025 budget calls for a 5.74% property tax increase, amounting to an average increase of $213 annually, or $17.75 per month, for residential taxpayers. Mayor Davis emphasized that the increase reflects necessary investments in emergency services, public transit, and infrastructure, ensuring Brantford continues to meet the needs of its growing population.
The proposed budget allocates funding for an additional ambulance to improve response times for medical emergencies and expands resources for the Brantford Police Service. Two additional police cruisers and a full-time crime prevention officer are included to enhance public safety. Without these critical investments, the tax increase could have been held below 4%.
Major capital projects are also highlighted in the budget, including a $5.32 million investment to modernize and expand public transit services. Beginning in September 2025, transit enhancements will introduce three core routes with two-way service and feeder routes to better connect neighborhoods.
The capital budget totals $161.6 million and supports infrastructure upgrades, road improvements, and long-term development projects. The plan includes a $250,000 allocation for sidewalk enhancements and a $75,000 feasibility study on amalgamation or municipal restructuring with the County of Brant.
A special Council meeting on January 14 will provide an opportunity for amendments to the budget, and Mayor Davis has pledged not to use his Strong Mayor powers to veto changes supported by a majority of council members. Written notice of amendments must be submitted by January 10.
Residents who wish to share feedback on the proposed budget can register as a delegate to speak at the January 14 meeting. Advance registration is required prior to the meeting to secure a spot for public input.
Mayor Davis credited city staff, elected officials, and residents for their input during pre-budget consultations, calling the proposal a balanced approach to addressing growth while maintaining fiscal responsibility. Residents can review the full budget details and provide input by visiting brantford.ca/CityBudget.
