Port Hope council took another step toward finalizing the municipality’s 2026 budget during a special council meeting held Tuesday, January 13.
The meeting focused on reviewing the staff prepared draft budget, examining capital priorities, and identifying ways to reduce the impact on taxpayers while maintaining essential services. At the conclusion of the meeting, council endorsed the mayor’s intention to bring forward a proposed 2.7 per cent increase under the Strong Mayor budget process. That represents a reduction from the 3.42 per cent levy increase originally proposed by staff.
Discussions centred on preparing for future growth, closing the municipality’s infrastructure gap, and aligning spending with Port Hope’s strategic plan. Council also reviewed how reserves, grants, and growth readiness funding could be used to advance key projects while easing pressure on the tax base.
Several budget amendments were introduced during the meeting. These included a motion related to the Barrett Street footbridge, directing staff to update project details to allow funding to be used for studies related to removal or replacement. Council also supported including $9,500 in operating funds for Community Care Northumberland.
Additional motions directed staff to continue working on timelines and funding options for the Garden Hill Dam application process through the Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority, and to report back on potential next steps.
Under Ontario’s Strong Mayor Powers legislation, the mayor will now formally present the proposed Strong Mayor budget, including the approved amendments, at the next regular council meeting on January 20. Budget documents will be posted at engage.porthope.ca/2026-budget, where residents are encouraged to continue providing feedback.
Council’s progress during the January 13 meeting resulted in the cancellation of an additional budget session previously scheduled for January 15.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
