Barrie councillors have approved the city’s portion of Mayor Alex Nuttall’s 2026 budget, maintaining a zero per cent increase to the operating budget for the fourth year in a row.
Residents will again see no property tax increase on their municipal bill. Council also approved the continuation of a two per cent Infrastructure Investment Funding levy, which supports long term repair and renewal of Barrie’s roads, pipes and public facilities. For the average household, the levy will cost about $104 in 2026.
Nuttall said keeping taxes low while investing in major projects remains a priority.
“When I was elected, I promised to keep taxes stable and deliver real value for residents, and I’m proud that, for the fourth year in a row, we’ve been able to do exactly that,” he said.
“At the same time, this budget makes important investments in the projects and services that matter most to our community — from new recreation and library spaces to upgraded infrastructure — ensuring that Barrie continues to grow, thrive, and remain a great place to live, work, and raise a family.”
Prepared under Ontario’s Strong Mayor legislation, the 2026 budget outlines key capital investments to improve infrastructure and community amenities across the city.
Major projects include a new south-east recreation complex and library branch, a waterfront performing arts centre, a new Sea Cadets facility, a Lakehead University STEM hub, a Georgian College downtown centre, the upcoming YMCA, a northwest Barrie Public Library branch, road upgrades, transportation construction, drainage and sewer improvements, bridge replacements, green fleet initiatives and park renewals.
Council also approved a one-time $530,000 grant to the Downtown Barrie Business Improvement Area (BIA) to support events and operations. The funding — $475,000 from the tourism reserve and $55,000 from the tax rate stabilization reserve — will help cover costs for the annual Open Air Dunlop, concerts, festivals, outdoor movie nights and new security measures.
Also highlighted was Barrie’s recent AAA credit rating, the highest possible score. City officials said Barrie has generated nearly $75 million in revenue over the past two years and paid down more than $55 million in debt since 2022. The improved credit rating allows the city to borrow at lower interest rates, reducing costs for future major projects.
