Residents of the City of Oshawa and the Town of Whitby have a further opportunity to express their views on the 2026 budgets and the proposed tax increases of 4.68 per cent and 3.49 per cent respectively.
Even as Oshawa claims to propose a 2026 tax hike of 1.97 per cent on its own portion of the tax, Clarington is proposing the same at 0.99 per cent (overall 3 per cent) and Uxbridge at 1.28 per cent (overall rate of increase not provided).
“The City of Oshawa’s 2026 Budget has sparked discussion, reflecting how much our community cares about the city’s future,” said a city statement issued yesterday. “Municipal budgeting is a complex and thorough process that involves many factors. We are committed to building an understanding of the municipal budget process and how your tax dollars are invested back into your community.”
To take a closer look at Oshawa’s 2026 budget and what it means, the city has issued an invitation to residents to learn more by viewing its Budget Fact Sheet.
Whitby Invitation
The Town of Whitby is asking for feedback on the 2026 proposed budget after affordability concerns were raised by residents.
Whitby’s Chief Administrative officer Matt Gaskell, said: “Like municipalities across Ontario, Whitby is facing unprecedented financial pressures, including the impacts of inflation, tariffs, rapid population growth, and significant provincial downloading. That’s why the proposed 2026 budget reflects a collective effort across all departments, including the Whitby Public Library and Station Gallery, to balance priorities, manage costs, and prioritize affordability, while maintaining essential services.”
Here’s how residents are can continue to learn more and have their say:
In Person: Attend the Budget Public Meeting on November 18 at 7 pm in Whitby Council Chambers or tune in online at whitby.ca/CouncilCalendar.
The virtual forum was open until November 14.
Affordability
According to Mayor Elizabeth Roy, “Affordability has been one of the most pressing concerns I’ve heard from residents throughout the budget process, including at all six of my Talk Budget with Mayor Roy events this fall. Recently, I’ve seen information being circulated regarding proposed budget cuts to the library. I am a strong supporter of the Whitby Public Library and deeply value the role it plays in our community.”
Following discussions with the Whitby Public Library Board Chair, Mayor Roy adjusted the original decrease of the town’s operating grant for the library from 5% to 3% (or about $326,000 to about $187,000). Pending council approval, the Whitby Public Library’s operating grant for 2026 will be $6.3 million. How those funds are allocated is determined by the Library Board.
Mayor Roy added “It’s important to me that residents know the facts. This is not a finalized budget. I am open to continued conversations about how we can best balance affordability with the services and programs that make Whitby such a great place to live. I encourage residents to share their feedback and come to the public meeting next week.”
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