Mayor David Bailey presented the County of Brant’s proposed 2026 Budget at two Special Council meetings held on January 22 and February 2, 2026.
Following extensive discussion, and guided by the newly approved Long-Term Financial Plan, Council endorsed a 4 per cent property tax increase, along with an additional 1 per cent tax surcharge dedicated to the New Hospital Project, a commitment Council has pledged to maintain over the next several years.
For the median residential property, the increase represents approximately $206 per year.
Under provincial legislation governing the Strong Mayor Powers framework, the budget was deemed adopted without amendment on February 15, 2026, after receiving Council’s support.
“I know I speak not only for myself, but for all of Council, when I say that we do not take any tax increase lightly,” said Mayor Bailey.
“We are at a point in time where thoughtful investments are needed to maintain and renew our aging infrastructure, support our emergency responders, and respond to the growing need for community services and outreach supports. We have also committed to a local contribution toward the New Hospital Project, which is essential to its success and represents a critical investment in the health and well-being of our community.”
Infrastructure remains a central priority for 2026. In addition to funding for infrastructure renewal and road improvements, the budget maintains support for emergency services, parks and recreation, community development initiatives, and other municipal services relied upon by residents.
Key highlights of the 2026 Budget include servicing infrastructure investments in Cainsville to support economic growth and the development of a premier employment area; completion of the Paramedic Services Headquarters and Garage facility to enhance accommodations for the County’s essential service; and contributions to major community projects, including the Lansdowne Children’s Centre and the Woodland Cultural Centre capital campaigns.
The 2026 budget marks the first year Mayor Bailey presented the financial plan under the Strong Mayor Powers provisions.
Council members emphasized that the process remained collaborative, featuring open discussion, shared input, and collective approval.
“I feel very proud to be a part of this Council,” Mayor Bailey said.
“I believe that no single individual should make decisions for our community, and I am pleased that we were able to come together, with open and honest discussions across all wards, for the greater good of the County of Brant.”
Residents were invited to participate in the development of both the 2026 Long-Term Financial Plan and the 2026 Budget through the Engage Brant website.
The page recorded approximately 1,800 visits, and 219 surveys were completed.
Key themes identified in the feedback included infrastructure, traffic and growth management; hospital and health care; public transportation and active mobility; recreation and community facilities; housing affordability and land use planning; equity among communities; and financial accountability.
“Thank you to everyone who provided their feedback throughout the approval of the Long-Term Financial Plan and the 2026 Budget process,” said Mayor Bailey.
“Engaged communities provide valuable input that helps inform our decisions, supporting the community now and for future generations.”
Residents are encouraged to learn more about the 2026 Budget by visiting brant.ca/Budget, where they can access the budget overview, departmental breakdowns, presentations, meeting recordings, and additional information about the consultation process.
