2026 Mayor's Budget | Township of Southgate

The Township of Southgate has approved the 2026 Municipal Budget, effective March 1, 2026.

On January 30, 2026, Mayor Milne tabled the 2026 Budget in accordance with the Province of Ontario’s Strong Mayor Powers framework. The tabling of the budget initiated a 30-day amendment period, providing Members of Council the opportunity to review the document and propose amendments.

On February 4, 2026 Council approved an amendment to allocate an additional $40,000 to General Reserves. No further amendments were brought forward during the remainder of the amendment period.

On February 19, 2026 Mayor Milne waved his statutory veto period, allowing the budget to be finalized and approved effective March 1, 2026.

The 2026 Budget was approved at a blended tax rate increase of 3.47%.

“The 2026 Budget is a responsible, forward-looking budget grounded in sound financial management and long-term sustainability. The budget reflects the choice to address critical capital projects now, protecting essential services and preventing greater costs in the future. This budget balances immediate priorities with thoughtful planning for growth, ensuring the Township remains strong, resilient and prepared for years ahead. I want to thank Council, staff and our residents for their engagement and shared commitment to build a strong, sustainable community for generations to come.” – Mayor Brian Milne

2026 Approved Budget:

Amendments to Proposed Budget:

Meeting Date	Amendment	Approved by Majority Vote
February 4, 2026	That $40,000.00 be added to General Reserves	Yes
February 18, 2026	None	N/A

Documents:

Budget Presentation
(as of February 4, 2026)

Capital Budget Summary

Capital Budget by Department

Budget Timeline

Friday, January 30, 2026	Mayors Budget Tabled - Members of Council may propose amendments to the Mayor's Budget within a 30-day amendment window.
Wednesday, February 4, 2026 9:00 AM	Council may propose amendments to the Mayor's Budget by a majority resolution.
Wednesday, February 18, 2026 1:00 PM	Council may propose amendments to the Mayor's Budget by a majority resolution.
Sunday, March 1, 2026	30-day Amendment Period Ends - If NO amendments are received, the budget is deemed to be adopted by the Municipality. Mayor Milne waived his statutory veto period on Thursday, February 19, 2026, through Mayoral Decision MDE2026-003. By waiving the veto period, following the end of the 30-day amendment window, the budget will be deeded to be passed on March 1, 2026.

Strong Mayor Powers

On April 9, 2025 the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing announced the expansion of strong mayor powers to the Township of Southgate. As a result, Part VI.1 of the Municipal Act, 2001, along with O.Reg. 530/22 was applied to the Township of Southgate.

Under Part VI.1 of the Municipal Act, 2001, the Mayor is responsible to propose the municipal budget, which would be subject to Council amendments and a separate Head of Council Veto and Council override process.

More information on Strong Mayor Power's in the Township can be viewed here.

2025 Budget Recap

At the Township of Southgate Council meeting held on April 3, 2025, the Council adopted the 2025 budget at a 5.31% increase.