Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens has officially tabled the city's 2026 budget with a 0 per cent tax levy increase.
According to provincial legislation, city councillors now have 30 days to make changes to the proposed document.
Residents will have a chance to comment on the budget at the January 12, 2026, council meeting. Anyone wishing to register must do so no later than 12:00 p.m. on Friday, January 9, 2026, by contacting Council Services at 519-255-6432.
The budget includes $223 million for roads and sewers and $29.2 million for community services.
"It is crucial that this year’s budget keep affordability top of mind while continuing to invest in growth and delivery of services. When I knocked on doors, I promised to maintain the tax levy increase at or below the rate of inflation. I promised to honour my record of fiscal prudence, and my commitment to delivering responsible budgets that support our city’s evolution, while ensuring quality of life. At a time when the cost of living is high, we are facing uncertainties in the global economy, and folks are working hard to make ends meet – this proposed budget sends a strong signal to Windsorites that we have your back," said Dilkens. "As always, the City budget should empower progress, strategically bolster and streamline services, and build a stronger and more resilient city for the future. I look forward to hearing from delegations and deliberating with City Council as we work together to maintain and sustain our growth trajectory, while ensuring Windsor remains one of the most affordable communities in Ontario."
When Dilkens presented a high-level overview of the budget before the holidays, he stated there would be no significant service cuts and no major cuts to city staff. However, there are several reductions in the budget listed as "labour relations", including $539,576 in the Transit Windsor budget.
The budget also includes several user fee increases in recreation and facilities and a Transit Windsor fare increase from $3.75 to $4.
