Strong-mayor powers have been put to use in Port Colborne as the city’s budget was adopted during a special council meeting on Tuesday night.

The 2026 capital and operating budget results in a 3.87 per cent city levy increase, or roughly $90 more in taxes for a residential property assessed at $203,084.

Two of the largest items in the budget are $6 million for water main lining over three years and $3 million for a new ladder truck for the fire department.

Under Ontario’s strong-mayor legislation, the head of council is responsible for preparing and presenting the budget to council before Feb. 1.

The legislative process includes clearly defined timelines and accountability measures, such as the mayor preparing a budget and providing it to council and the public.

Council and residents

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