Calgary, (Rajeev Sharma): Calgary City Council has presented the 2026 budget adjustments, confirming plans to maintain previously approved property tax increases despite ongoing concerns about rising living costs. The proposed adjustments aim to balance city operations and fund essential services amid inflationary pressures and a rapidly growing population.
According to city documents, the overall tax revenue increase for 2026 is projected at 3.6 per cent, translating to an average 5.4 per cent rise for residential homeowners and 1.3 per cent for non-residential properties. The City of Calgary says the increase is necessary to maintain services, invest in infrastructure, and support public safety initiatives.
The proposed 2026 operating budget totals approximately $4.6 billion, with $3.6 billion earmarked for capital projects. Key investments include:
- $78 million for affordable housing and building conversions.
- $61 million for downtown safety, emergency response, and policing.
- $68 million for transit, roads, and infrastructure upgrades.
City administration emphasized that without the tax adjustments, essential programs and service levels could be compromised. However, several councillors have expressed concerns about the financial strain on residents, urging the city to explore cost-saving measures before passing additional increases.
Public feedback on the proposed budget will remain open until November 20, with final council deliberations scheduled later this month.
If approved, the adjustments will mark the third consecutive year of property tax increases in Calgary, as the city continues to navigate population growth, inflation, and infrastructure demands.
