The 2026 Budget for the Municipality of Port Hope has been adopted. Mayor Olena Hankivsky presented the Budget at the Council meeting on January 20, which was informed by Council deliberations and unanimously endorsed at a Special Council Meeting on January 13. Under the new legislation, the amendment period for the budget has now lapsed and the budget is now in effect.
“The development of the 2026 budget included a careful and balanced approach to funding key priorities while limiting the impact on taxpayers,” stated Mayor Olena Hankivsky. “Council has been focused on addressing the infrastructure funding shortfall, managing municipal finances responsibly, and ensuring the Municipality is well positioned to support future growth.”
The 2026 budget funded by municipal taxes requires a rate increase of 2.7 per cent on the total tax bill. This increase will result in a typical homeowner paying an additional $139 annually, or $12 monthly, per $272,000 of assessed home value.
The 2026 budget includes a strategic mix of funding sources, drawing on reserves, grants, and growth readiness funding to advance priority projects, without placing undue burden on taxpayers.
“I am proud of the Budget we have adopted and of the collaboration with both Council and staff that made it possible,” continued Mayor Hankivsky. “This work reflects a forward-looking approach that prepares our community for long-term success, including more than $20 million dedicated to supporting the implementation of our Strategic Plan.”
2026 Budget Highlights
The 2026 Budget prioritizes investments that enhance safety, connectivity, and community well-being, including:
$1,921,300 to support the renewal of fleet assets for services related to fire protection, policing, transit accessibility, winter road maintenance, and parks operations.
$3,799,500 in meaningful upgrades to parks and recreational spaces, including Rapley Park, Optimist Park, and ongoing planning for Welcome Park and open spaces.
$4,490,200 for key road and infrastructure projects such as the reconstruction of Victoria Street South, rural road resurfacing, and urban street improvements.
$6,122,000 in critical water, wastewater and stormwater investments, to support long-term infrastructure reliability and growth.
Investing in the Future
The 2026 budget also includes $888,884 as a contribution to the infrastructure funding shortfall. The current term of Council has reduced the infrastructure funding shortfall by 13.8 per cent since 2022 and has nearly caught up to inflation increases since 2017.
Residents are encouraged to review budget information, including budget highlights and documents, on the Municipality’s website. Updates on the implementation of budget initiatives will be shared through the Municipality’s communication channels, including the website and social media.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
