City Operating Budget Approved

The City of Belleville’s 2026 Operating Budget was approved during today’s Special City Council meeting. In accordance with Ontario’s Strong Mayor legislation, the Mayor will have until March 9 to veto any amendments made before the budget is adopted.

The 2026 Operating Budget would result in the following residential tax increases:

• Belleville Urban +5.10%
• Cannifton Urban +5.05%
• Cannifton Rural +6.01%
• Belleville Rural +4.55%
• Cannifton Rural to Urban +7.03%

The full 2026 Capital and Operating Budget reports will be available at Belleville.ca/Budget soon. In the meantime, residents can watch the full Capital and Operating Budget meetings on the City’s YouTube channel at: YouTube.com/BellevilleCityHall.

“We have worked diligently throughout this year’s budget process to arrive at a responsible and balanced financial plan for 2026,” said Mayor Neil Ellis. “This budget reflects our commitment to maintaining essential services, investing in our community and managing costs thoughtfully for residents. I would like to thank all City staff for their careful analysis, collaboration and dedication throughout this process.”