Waterloo Region’s preliminary budget for next year proposes a tax hike of 4.94 per cent — about a $96 increase for the average assessed residential property.

The region’s budget committee was provided with an overview of the 2026 financial plan on Wednesday after council earlier directed staff to prepare a draft budget for direct regional services, excluding police, that limits the overall tax levy increase to no more than five per cent.

The details are expected to be rolled out in the coming weeks as staff has attempted to mitigate service adjustments as much as possible, said chief financial officer Wayne Steffler.

“This year’s plan is about striking the right balance, ensuring quality service while maintaining affordability,” Steffler told the budget committee. “We’re maintaining ess

See Full Page