2026 Tax & Rate Budget

Investing in What Matters Most. We’re listening.

The City Budget is like a roadmap that outlines our community’s priorities. Each year, Council decides how money should be used to fund city services, programs and infrastructure. It ensures the City can continue to deliver 70 programs and services to residents today and also plan for future needs, while balancing affordability and tax competitiveness.

Thinking about all the City’s priorities - housing, infrastructure, public safety, and service improvements - what matters most to you when planning for Hamilton’s future?

Key Investment Areas

Infrastructure Enhancement

The 2026 budget and multi-year plan include major investments to maintain existing infrastructure and build new facilities that support community growth. 

Public Health and Safety

To meet the needs of a growing city, the budget includes funding to expand Hamilton Paramedic Service and Hamilton Fire Department services and programs.

Economic Stability & Development

Increased advocacy efforts with levels of government are critical in addressing the budgeted pressures faced in 2026 and beyond.

Responding to the Housing Crisis

The City is making a strong financial commitment to address housing needs through the Whole of Hamilton approach, which supports affordable and supportive housing solutions.

Advancing Customer Experience and Transparency

The City is committed to openness and transparency in its decision-making and service delivery.

Building Better and Stronger

The City is improving customer service by investing in technology and automation. These upgrades help boost productivity, reduce costs, and avoid future expenses.

How can I get involved?

Your voice matters and will inform City decisions on the 2026 Tax Budget. The input you share with us reflects your experiences, knowledge, and perspective on how you live and interact with your city. By understanding what matters most to you, we can make better, more informed decisions about Hamilton’s future.

There are many ways to get involved in this year’s budget engagement:

Online at Engage Hamilton

Explore a variety of interactive tools on the City’s online engagement platform. From quick polls to idea sharing, your feedback will help us inform key priorities and better understand what matters most to community.  

Visit engage.hamilton.ca/2026budget

Attend an engagement session

Join us at a tax budget engagement session to learn more about the City’s budget, ask questions, and take part in conversations about how Hamilton should invest today and into the future. 

Every voice counts. Whether online or in-person, your participation helps shape a budget that reflects our shared goals and values.