Ottawa Council Approves 2026 Budget Directions

The Ottawa City Council approved the directions for preparing the 2026 budget in a session held yesterday, where the proposals received the approval of the majority of members. The proposals included a set of financial controls aimed at achieving a balance between spending requirements and ensuring that taxpayers are not burdened with unjustified additional costs.

Property Tax Cap

The council set a cap on the property tax increase at no more than 3.75%, in a step aimed at controlling inflationary pressures and easing the burdens on residents and property owners. This measure is expected to provide greater financial stability for families while continuing to meet municipal service needs.

Public Transit and Fees

In terms of transportation, the directions specified an increase in operating allocations for public transit services ranging between 3% and 15%, with ticket prices raised by 2.5% to 7.5%. The council explained that these adjustments are necessary to maintain service continuity and improve its quality, despite the financial challenges facing the sector.

Public Health and Libraries

The council approved a maximum increase in the budgets for public health and libraries of only 2.9%, reflecting a commitment to maintaining essential services within reasonable spending limits, with restrictions imposed on new hiring for permanent positions within the administrative apparatus.

Police Budget

On the other hand, the directions approved an increase in the Ottawa Police budget ranging between 2.9% and 6.5%, aimed at enhancing security resources and meeting public safety requirements.

Discussion Timeline

The detailed budget draft is scheduled to be presented to the council’s specialized committees on November 12, 2025, and will be put to a final vote before the council in a session on December 10, 2025.

Community Participation

The council called on city residents, business groups, and civil society to participate in expressing their opinions and suggestions regarding the budget through the Engage Ottawa platform, emphasizing that citizen engagement is a central part of shaping public spending directions.