2026 Budget: My Commitment to Fiscal Responsibility

Mayor Horwath released her 2026 Budget Directive this week, instructing staff to prepare a "Hold the Line" budget with a maximum tax increase of 4.25%. The directive responds to economic uncertainty and affordability challenges facing Hamilton residents.

As budget season approaches, I want Ward 11 residents to know where I stand: I vote against budgets that don't make fiscal sense or that place unreasonable financial burdens on taxpayers. I've done it before, and I'll do it again, if necessary.

A 4.25% increase still means higher taxes for Ward 11 homeowners. The directive requires staff to achieve this target through operational efficiencies, cost-saving measures, new revenue streams, capital project reviews, and prudent use of debt and reserves. Critical infrastructure (roads, transit, water/wastewater) and community safety priorities shouldn't be compromised.

What I'll be watching: Have we found real efficiencies, not just vague promises? Are we managing staffing responsibly? Are we pursuing all available provincial and federal funding? Are capital projects being reviewed honestly? Are we giving the City staff a goal and having them work to achieve it? What specific services get protected versus cut?

For Ward 11, budget priorities are straightforward: roads, infrastructure, the New Glanbrook Recreation Centre, and services that directly benefit residents. I want continued investment in services supporting our rural and small-town character. What I don't want is Ward 11 paying for spending that primarily benefits other areas or programs that don't deliver measurable value for taxpayers.

I will review the 2026 budget carefully, ask hard questions, advocate for Ward 11's needs, and push back on unjustified requests. If the final budget doesn't meet the test of fiscal responsibility, I won't support it regardless of political pressure.

Ward 11 residents elected me to represent their interests and be a responsible steward of taxpayer money. That's what I'll continue to do.

The Mayor and staff held several budget engagement sessions for public input across the city throughout this past September including one at the Binbrook Fairgrounds. Ward 11 residents had the opportunity to directly express priorities and concerns. Salient comments focused on the rec centre, roads, and tax increases. As budget documents become available, I'll share updates and analysis.