November 10, 2025 — The proposed 2026 City Budget is now available for review online, with a Council Budget Deliberation Meeting scheduled for Nov. 25, 2025.
The proposed budget includes crucial capital investments totalling $59.9 million into infrastructure and assets such as roads, sewers, arenas and parks, while balancing affordability for taxpayers.
The proposed 2026 Operating Budget is $195.5 million and represents a 3.34 per cent increase to net operating expenses that will need to be recovered via property taxes.
The proposed budget was prepared and posted in accordance with Mayoral Direction as outlined in the Municipal Act.
Budget Process Timeline
Posting of the budget initiates timelines for its review and approval.
Release of the proposed budget initiates a 30-day period during which Council members can pass resolutions to amend the proposed budget document. Council will have the opportunity to consider any potential amendments during the Nov. 25 Budget Deliberation Meeting, which will take place at 9 a.m.
A Public Input and Grant Session will be held during the Nov. 17 Council Meeting.
When the amendment period expires, a 10-day period initiates, during which the Mayor can veto any Council amendments. Any veto can be overridden by a two-thirds vote of Council.
Draft Budget Documents
The proposed 2025 Budget can be accessed online at www.sarnia.ca/Budget.