Brandon approves 6.9% tax increase in 2025 budget

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The City of Brandon has approved a 6.9 per cent tax increase as part of 2025 budget.

On Saturday, the city announced it passed its 2025 budget, saying it is focused on “sustainable growth and ensuring a better future for Brandon families.’

According to the city, the budget includes a 7.1 per cent tax requirement increase, which translates to a 6.9 per cent increase in the municipal portion of the average property owner’s tax bill.

Other notable parts of the budget include:

• $30.7 million for wastewater infrastructure enhancements and preservation.
• $18.9 million for land drainage projects.
• $18.2 million for transit fleet projects.
• $16.1 million for the city’s facilities, including a new police operations centre.
• $12.8 million for parks and recreation services.
• $1.2 million for solid waste projects.

The budget also includes $250,000 for the street preservation program; $100,000 for a tree enhancement program; $50,000 for the medical doctor recruitment program; and $50,000 toward sidewalk and curb preservation.

Brandon will also put $200,000 toward pothole remediation and up to $100,000 for a pedestrian corridor on Victoria Avenue East near Russell Street.

“Brandon families rely on a high quality of life and reasonable taxes, which is what we aim to provide,” said Mayor Jeff Fawcett in a news release.

“This budget is focused on addressing essential needs, ensuring entitlements, and prioritizing key aspects such as clean water, safe streets, and a livable city. We’re going to continue to focus on our plan to sustainability that we started last year with a focus on rebuilding long-term sustainability in Brandon’s finances.”