Cambridge’s proposed 2026 budget features 4.86 per cent property tax increase

Cambridge city hall was photographed on Oct. 3, 2025. (Krista Simpson/CTV News)

Cambridge’s mayor has presented her proposed 2026 Strong Mayor Budget, featuring a potential 4.86 per cent property tax increase.

In a news release on Monday, the city said the proposed increase would amount to approximately $85 more per year for the average household.

The budget includes 2.06 per cent for the opening of a new recreation complex and 0.47 per cent for a new library branch.

“The proposed 2026 tax-supported budget maintains all existing service levels while funding important initiatives to support top priorities, including maintaining the City’s assets with a focus on roads and bridges, the opening of the new multi-purpose recreation complex and library branch, preserving City owned heritage assets and strengthening the City’s fire services, and reflects the full implementation of the City’s dedicated stormwater utility rate,” the release said.

The public is invited to weigh in on the budget by delegating to council on Nov. 6. Anyone who is unable to delegate on that day can also send their thoughts to the city by emailing [e-mail].

Using Strong Mayor Powers, mayors propose a municipal budget, which is subject to council amendments and a mayor veto and council override process.