Affordability Key Focus As Kitchener Introduces Budget 2026

Kitchener, ON – The City of Kitchener has released its draft 2026 budget “Affordable today, Ready for tomorrow”, with themes of affordable city services, smart infrastructure investments and focusing on the future.  

“We know that affordability is top of mind for our residents and that’s why our main focus is on delivering the lowest tax increase possible while continuing to deliver the programs and services that they rely on every day,” said Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic. “The proposed 2.2% tax increase speaks to our City’s strong fiscal management all while balancing the forward-looking investments our city needs for tomorrow.” 

The City’s operating budget delivers many services that residents and businesses in our community rely on including things like snow clearing, community centres, libraries, roads and trails, recreational programming, by-law, and fire services. 

“Since this term of Council began in 2022, we’ve had the lowest cumulative tax rate increase of any area municipality and overall have one of the lowest property tax burdens in the province.” said Finance & Corporate Services Committee Chair, Councillor Scott Davey. “The City of Kitchener receives 30% of residents’ total tax bill. It’s our responsibility to prioritize the programs and services community members rely on every day, while making vital investments our city needs for tomorrow – all while delivering a budget residents can afford.” 

The focus on affordability is reflected in a pause on the addition of new staff positions and a consistent emphasis on fiscal restraint. At the same time, smart investments in infrastructure are being made to maintain and improve Kitchener’s $15 billion in assets, including roads, bridges, water systems, parks and public facilities.  The budget is also focusing on the future through investments in the priorities outlined in the City of Kitchener’s 2023–2026 Strategic Plan.   

“Building Kitchener’s future means smart investment for a thriving, inclusive and sustainable community, all while keeping affordability top of mind,” said Mayor Berry Vrbanovic. “Thanks to the collaborative approach to budgeting that persists at the City of Kitchener, we remain steadfast in our commitment to protect Kitchener residents through fiscally-prudent, strategic investments.” 

The City’s capital budget has also been released which includes more than 400 projects to support our city’s growth and vibrancy. Capital expenditures are projected to be $1.8 billion over 10 years, with $201 million of spending in the first year.  The 2026 Budget Year will see the completion of construction and public opening of the new $174 million Cowan Recreational Complex – a premier destination for sports, fitness and community activities. 

Key highlights of the proposed 2026 budget include: 

These figures are based on the average assessed value of a detached home in Kitchener and amount to less than $10 per month.  

The budget will be presented to Council on November 24.  Residents are encouraged to learn more and share their feedback by completing a short survey at engagewr.ca/kitchener-budget-2026. Feedback will be accepted until November 26. 

For more information, visit kitchener.ca/budget. 

For more information, contact: