Brandon city council approves budget with tax increase

The City of Brandon is seen in this undated photo. (Jeff Keele/CTV News Winnipeg)

Brandon’s city council approved the 2026 municipal budget with tax increase.

On Saturday, the city of Brandon said the budget for 2026 was officially approved, including a tax requirement increase of 7.4 per cent. The city said it will translate to a 6.7 per cent increase in the municipal portion of the average property owner’s tax bill.

“This budget ensures Brandon families can count on core municipal services while we invest responsibly in our city’s future,” Mayor Jeff Fawcett said in a media release.

The city described six projects as “major projects supporting sustainable growth.” The projects include $50.3 million for water and wastewater infrastructure, $27.1 million for land drainage projects, $17.8 million for facilities infrastructure and purchase of four transit buses.

The city also highlighted the return of weekly recycling collection year-round, a third-party snow clearing pilot program and crosswalk enhancements.

“By centering the 2026 budget on core services and reprioritizing infrastructure maintenance and upgrades, city council is confident that we’re reinforcing Brandon’s future and keeping our city resilient, livable and thriving,” Fawcett said.