Cambridge has approved its 2026 municipal budget as Mayor Jan Liggett chose not to use her strong-mayor powers to veto any amendments made by councillors.

Liggett had a 10-day veto period, which she shortened to seven.

The tax levy for the 2026 budget now sits at a 2.44 per cent increase, which is an additional $42.37 per year for the average home valued at $344,000.

The increase includes a one per cent infrastructure renewal levy and initial phased-in costs for the new recreation complex. Water utility bills will rise 4.21 per cent in 2026.

Six out of 13 budget amendments were approved by Cambridge council, including a major amendment from Coun. Helen Shwery that lowered next year’s tax levy from 4.37 to 2.44 per cent.

Shwery said the rate stabilization fund is healthy and doing exac

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