As we head into the fall, one important step here at City Hall is my annual direction to staff to prepare next year’s City budget. This is a chance to highlight specific investments and measures that address the key priorities and concerns I’ve heard from residents across the city. With that in mind, here are a few key instructions I’ve given to staff on what to include in the 2026 budget.
First, I’ve increased the roads budget from $60 million to $75 million, enabling more extensive road improvements across the city. This will support projects like the repaving we’ve been able to do with sections of Brock and Johnson Streets over this past summer.
Second, I’ve asked City staff to allocate funds aimed at enhancing safety, security and cleanliness in City parks, the downtown core and other public spaces. I’ve also directed up to $10 million toward affordable and supportive housing projects, alongside strategic investments to support accessible services and programs.
Third, I’ve directed additional resources to support business investment in Kingston. We recognize that tariff threats and global tensions are creating a lot of economic uncertainty, making it harder and riskier for companies to invest. As mayor, I’m committed to making it easier for our existing businesses to expand their operations, which in turn creates more jobs and prosperity for our community.
Fourth, I’ve asked staff to include necessary debt financing in the upcoming budget to break ground on the new pool facility at the INVISTA Centre. This new aquatic facility is vital to meet the needs of our growing community, and the budget decisions we make now will ensure construction can begin in 2027.
Finally, I’ve mandated that the next City budget must have one of the lowest tax rates increases among all large cities in Ontario. While we have a lot of important work to do and key investments ahead, we must live within our means and be careful and efficient with tax dollars.