Fewer flowers in Windsor business districts after budget cuts

Hanging flower baskets have been cut from the City’s budget. The DWBIA is now working on a solution to see the flowers return next year.

Downtown Windsor business leaders say that they’re disappointed after the city announced budget cuts that will eliminate hanging flower baskets in several BIA districts.

While some flowers will remain this year, officials say major changes are coming.

The cuts will be phased in over two years, meaning some flowers will still be in place this season - though at half the usual amount.

The Downtown Windsor Business Improvement Association says it’s now working on a plan to bring flowers back next year.

Chair Chris Macleod says they found out about a week ago after the BIA had already finalized their budget for the year.

“Beautification may look different than hanging baskets in 2026, but I think it’ll still be part of our goal and our mandate to beautify our downtown,” he affirmed. “And how we do that might be adjusted based on, you know, decisions from the city.”

Macleod told CTV news he still commends the city for maintaining a 3 per cent tax increase.

Officials with the city declined to comment, saying they’re not able to discuss things that may have been dealt with in-camera.