At its final meeting of the year, Municipality of Port Hope Council approved the schedule for the 2026 municipal budget process.
Since the introduction of Strong Mayor Powers in 2025, the budget process has changed. Under this legislation, the Mayor is responsible for preparing and presenting the budget to Council before February 1.
In October 2025, the Mayor confirmed that she would not use her authority to independently propose and adopt the 2026 budget. Instead, she instructed municipal staff to prepare the draft budget for Council’s review, following the Municipality’s traditional process of collaboration and discussion. This decision underscores a commitment to inclusivity and transparency, prioritizing democratic engagement over unilateral decision-making. By involving council members and the community, the Mayor promotes trust and consensus-building, which strengthens the Municipality’s governance framework and sets a precedent for future participatory approaches.
Staff have been working diligently through the summer and fall to develop both the capital and operating budgets. This process has involved a detailed review of all line items and consideration of current economic conditions, including rising costs for materials, fuel, and construction. The goal is to maintain essential services, while minimizing the impact on the tax levy by pursuing efficiencies, grants, and partnerships. Public input will be welcomed as Council works to strike the right balance for Port Hope.
Council has approved the staff-proposed budget meeting for January 13, 2025, in the Council Chambers at Town Hall. A follow-up meeting will be held on January 15, 2025, to review any recommendations from Council. At that point, the Mayor will consider the recommendations from Council and establish the Mayor’s Proposed Budget that will be published on the municipal website for public review and comment. Over the following week, Council members may submit proposed amendments to the Clerk in preparation for inclusion in the agenda for Council consideration at a meeting on February 3.
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
