Durham Regional Council approves the 2026 Business Plans and Budget

Whitby, Ontario – Durham Regional Council has approved the 2026 Business Plans and Budget.  

Durham Region's 2026 Budget balances delivering quality services with maintaining affordability for residents with a property tax increase of 4.8 per cent. For an average homeowner, Regional property taxes will increase by about $14 per month where approximately $10 dollars funds police services and $4 will be invested in other essential services across the Region including transit, housing, paramedic services and Regional roads and bridges.  

We held a Budget Town Hall, conducted a public survey, and invited public feedback to help shape the priorities for this budget – we heard clearly that a focus on affordability and ensuring that essential services continue to evolve and meet demand are important to residents.  

The 2026 Budget focuses on keeping costs manageable while still funding the services residents rely on every day – important services that keep our community safe, connected, and supported. 

To guide future planning, the Region will carry out a Core Services Review that will assess existing service delivery, examine service level requirements, and identify opportunities for sustainable efficiencies. The review will also quantify areas where Regional funding exceeds senior‑government mandates, helping to inform the Region’s ongoing advocacy for predictable and adequate funding. 

Residents are reminded that the Municipal Property Tax Assessment Corporation (MPAC) sets the assessed value for each individual property. Questions about property valuation should be directed to MPAC at 1-866-296-6722 or mpac.ca.  

For more information about the Budget visit durham.ca/Budget.  

Quotes:  

“With the approval of the 2026 Business Plans and Budget, we remain focused on providing strong, reliable services while keeping affordability top of mind. Guided by Regional Council’s direction, this budget represents a collective effort across departments to create a more affordable budget plan to minimize impacts on residents, while maintaining strong frontline services under challenging conditions.” 

– John Henry, Regional Chair and CEO, Region of Durham  

“Durham Region’s approved 2026 Budget reflects the collaborative efforts of our Regional departments and agencies, all working towards the shared goal of delivering exceptional service to our communities. Thank you for your dedication to supporting our residents, organizations, and businesses.”  

– Kevin Ashe, Mayor of Pickering and Chair, Finance and Administration Committee 

“This budget focuses on fiscally responsible investments in Regional programs and services that matter most to our community, while addressing the demands that growth places on frontline services. This balanced approach positions our residents and businesses for success today and in the future.” 

– Nicole Pincombe, Commissioner of Finance