The stage is set for some of the most difficult regional budget decisions in years.

Regional councillors approved a motion at the beginning of the 2026 budget process that provided a 3.5 per cent tax increase guidance for regional departments, as well as the agencies, boards and commissions the region funds.

The motion followed consecutive regional property tax increases of 9.6 per cent, 7.02 per cent and 7.5 per cent.

Councillors have struggled with reducing the 2026 tax increase ever since.

The most significant recommendations came at the Dec.4 budget committee meeting, when a solid majority indicated they would be willing to eliminate this year’s contribution to a 10-year enhanced capital funding strategy. The decision would reduce the property tax increase next year to 6.81 per cen

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