Ontario Construction News staff writer
The City of Mississauga has approved its 2026 budget, focusing on important investments in infrastructure, transit, public safety, and development services while keeping the city’s share of the property tax increase below the current inflation rate.
City council gave the green light to the budget after a thorough consultation process that included ward town halls, budget committee meetings, and public input. This budget ensures funding for over 200 city programs and services while promoting significant capital projects throughout Mississauga.
The increase in the city’s budget for 2026 is set at 4.39 per cent, which means a 1.61 per cent rise in the municipal part of the property tax bill. When combined with a 3.60 per cent increase from the Region of Peel, residents will see an overall property tax hike of 5.21 per cent in 2026 – four percent lower than what was approved for 2025.
Officials noted that cost-containment strategies were essential to managing taxes effectively. The budget includes $17.4 million in savings from deferred expenses, reductions in budgets, and increased revenues. Additionally, council sanctioned a temporary cut of the Capital Infrastructure and Debt Repayment Levy from three per cent to one per cent for one year, as well as a one-year pause on the one per cent Public Safety Fire Program while still addressing crucial fire station repairs and equipment upkeep.
Infrastructure continues to be a primary focus in the capital plan for 2026. Funding is set aside for road rehabilitation throughout Mississauga, including widening Ninth Line, along with ongoing maintenance for roads, bridges, stormwater systems, parks, and trails. Winter maintenance initiatives like citywide windrow removal and sidewalk clearing are also supported.
This budget moves forward several major municipal construction projects such as designing Fire Stations 127 in Lorne Park and 128 in North Lakeview; both are expected to open by 2029. Construction is ongoing at Glenforest Youth Hub which should open during early 2028; renovations at South Common Community Centre and Library are projected to finish by late 2027 and will feature a new aquatics center, gymnasium, and upgraded library facilities.
Transit improvements are also part of this plan with intentions to acquire an additional 78 new parkland and hybrid buses as part of ongoing efforts towards sustainable transportation.
To accommodate growth within development services, the city plans to hire more staff for planning departments to enhance capacity and streamline approval processes along with additional bylaw enforcement officers focusing on proactive enforcement in priority areas.
“Mississauga residents provided candid feedback to help shape the 2026 Budget, and the City listened and responded to keep the tax increase minimal and under the current rate of inflation,” said Mayor Carolyn Parrish. “This was possible through smart, responsible solutions such as finding savings and efficiencies while pausing non-essential investments; it’s supported by our City’s strong financial position.”
City Manager and Chief Administrative Officer Geoff Wright mentioned that this budget balances growth with service delivery needs. “Mississauga’s growing population expects high-quality services alongside a well-kept city with vibrant economic opportunities. The 2026 Budget addresses all these aspects while aligning with our City’s Strategic Priorities,” he stated.
“The 2026 Budget invests in key services that our community depends on while ensuring we maintain vital infrastructure as our city expands both in size and influence,” said City Treasurer Marisa Chiu.
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