​Brockton adopts 2026 budget with tax-rate increase of 2.64 per cent

The Municipality of Brockton's 2026 budget was deemed adopted Thursday (Jan. 15).

This year’s budget process differed from previous years due to the Province of Ontario expanding strong mayor powers as of May 1, 2025. As part of these powers, Brockton mayor Chris Peabody has a duty to prepare and propose the budget before Feb. 1 each year, and the mayor’s budget is subject to council amendments, and a mayoral veto.

Following two special council meetings, Dec. 17, 2025, and Jan. 12, 2026, including consideration of council amendments, the 2026 budget was finalized through a collaborative and transparent process.

The budget includes a total tax-rate increase of 2.64 per cent and a total levy of $13,624,278. On the average household assessment, this results in a $89.27 yearly increase, or a $7.44 monthly increase.

This year’s budget was developed with a focus on maintaining essential services, recognizing economic challenges facing Brockton residents, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the growing community. The budget prioritizes the renewal of infrastructure to meet the needs of the growing community of Brockton.

Key highlights of the budget include:
 

• Strategic investments that support economic growth and infrastructure renewal — both built and social, above and below ground.
• Significant capital projects, including the replacement of key equipment, the installation of a fire decontamination washer, and important roadwork, such as the Ridout Street Culvert in Walkerton.
• Exciting recreation initiatives, such as new ball diamond lighting, a portable pitching mound, and the replacement of the ice resurfacer to enhance community sports and facilities.
• Continued progress in the East Ridge Business Park to support Housing Accelerator Funding and long-term investment in affordable housing.
• Continued commitment to youth programming, community facilities, and services for older adults.
• Sustained support for priority services, such as roads and winter maintenance, parks, recreation, libraries, planning, and economic development.
• Additional support for fire services due to growth of the Brockton Regional Training Centre, and increased training requirements as legislated by the province.
• One per cent dedicated to protecting and maintaining municipal assets and helping close the infrastructure funding gap over the next decade, with an additional 1.2 per cent applied toward reducing long-term borrowing.
• A renewed focus on community engagement and local events that foster pride, connection, and participation.

“Municipalities are the only level of government required to present a balanced budget," said mayor Chris Peabody. "I am confident that this 2026 budget is not only balanced, but also responsible, transparent, and aligned with Brockton’s long-term needs and values.”

The municipality continues to balance the increasing demand for services with the pressures of rising material, labour and supply costs. The 2026 budget reflects a responsible and strategic approach — investing in the people, places, and infrastructure that supports Brockton’s quality of life.