Mayor’s Proposed Budget focuses on affordability, accountability, and renewal

The 2026 Mayor’s Proposed Budget is now available for public review, marking the start of the legislated 30-day period before final adoption on December 4, 2025.

With the budget tabled, Council members can begin their review, provide input, and propose changes through a formal amendment process. Proposed amendments will be debated and decided before the budget is finalized. Over the coming weeks, Council will also take part in drop-in sessions with staff, board presentations, and business case reviews to support deliberations.

The proposed budget focuses on affordability, accountability, and renewal. It builds on the City’s foundation of fiscal responsibility while planning for sustainable growth, ensuring Welland remains affordable and resilient as the community continues to grow.

“I understand that balancing affordability with renewal for the future is critical for our residents,” said Mayor Frank Campion. “This proposed budget tells a clear story of maintaining the services residents rely on, renewing the infrastructure that keeps our community strong, and making transparent financial decisions that protect taxpayers.”

The 2026 budget takes a balanced approach, maintaining current service levels while investing in the renewal of essential infrastructure. It includes a property-tax-supported increase of 3.57 per cent and a combined water and wastewater rate increase of 6.97 per cent, while incorporating an estimated Niagara Region rate increase of 9.05 per cent.

The City’s budget process remains open and transparent, providing opportunities for Council and the community to offer input and suggest changes. By working collaboratively in the weeks ahead, Council and staff will ensure the final budget aligns with the City’s strategic priorities, supports essential services, and delivers value for residents ahead of finalization on December 4.

The full document is available for public review at https://engagewelland.ca/budget-2026.

- -

For media inquiries, please contact:
Marc MacDonald
Chief Communications & Engagement Officer
905-735-1700 x2337
marc.macdonald@welland.ca