Budget Update: February 17, 2026 Committee of the Whole Direction on 2026–2030 Financial Plan

At today’s Committee of the Whole meeting, members discussed options to address emerging service pressures and community priorities with a focus on policing as it relates to Budget 2026.

Following discussion, the Committee passed a recommendation that Council direct staff to provide additional reporting on an updated 2026–2030 Financial Plan based on a maximum annual tax increase for 2026 of 12%. For context, a 12% increase is estimated to represent approximately $20 per month for the average residential property.

The requested reporting will include:

  • Associated service level impacts
  • Reserve implications
  • Financial sustainability considerations

In addition, the Committee recommended that the budget include consideration of funding for two additional RCMP officers, with a third officer dedicated as a School Liaison Officer beginning later in 2026.

This recommendation will come forward to Council on Monday (February 23, 2026) for formal direction to staff.

If Council endorses the direction, staff will return with updated financial plan scenarios reflecting these parameters for further consideration as part of the 2026 budget process.

Residents can watch the full Committee of the Whole discussion online:


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