Belleville Council has solidified its operating budget for the year ahead.
Council approved the 2026 spending plan at a special meeting at City Hall today.
The majority of residential taxpayers, around 80-per cent, will be dealing with a 5.1-per cent tax increase in the Belleville Urban Zone.
That equates to about 67 cents a day, or around $20 a month on a residential property worth $250,000
The highest overall tax levy increase is in the transitional Cannifton Rural to Urban region at around 7 per cent.
Cannifton Rural area’s increase was approved at 6.01-per cent, Cannifton Urban resident will see a 5.05-per cent jump and Belleville Rural Zone’s tax hike comes in at 4.55-per cent.
A large amount of the cost is driven by a 15 per cent increase in the policing budget, which accounts for about 3.5 per cent of the total increase.
Some amendments were proposed to the police budget, Mayor Neil Ellis said, but it ultimately passed as presented.
The mayor added it was a ‘tough budget’ again this year, with the city only controlling 45-per cent of the budget.
He added outside agencies such as Hastings County also made an impact on this year’s operating plan, but council and staff worked hard to get the budget to a balanced and responsible level.
“This budget reflects our commitment to maintaining essential services, investing in our community and managing costs thoughtfully for residents,” the mayor Stated.
“I would like to thank all city staff for their careful analysis, collaboration and dedication throughout this process.”
In accordance with Ontario’s Strong Mayor legislation, the Mayor will have until March 9 to veto any amendments made before the budget is adopted.
