Richmond Hill grapples with budget constraints in 2026
As Richmond Hill residents brace for potential tax increases, a proposed $5.2-billion draft budget from York Region includes a 4.22% property tax increase, adding an estimated $127 to the annual bill for the average homeowner. This regional hike comes as Richmond Hill continues its own budget planning for 2026, navigating a challenging economic climate. City staff are now preparing the draft 2026 Budget, which will be shared on October 28, 2025. The Budget Committee will review it on November 18, and Council will vote on the final budget on December 10, 2025.
York Region’s budget dominated by police costs
The draft York Region budget, tabled on October 24, primarily allocates its proposed tax increase to funding York Regional Police. The police force requested a 12.7% net increase over its 2025 budget, with 98% of the boost tied to wage-related costs and funding for 150 new positions, including 56 frontline officers.
Other regional investments include infrastructure projects, community housing, and improvements to water and wastewater systems. The final vote on the regional budget is scheduled for November 27.
Richmond Hill aims to reduce tax burden
In response to inflationary pressures, the City of Richmond Hill is actively seeking to mitigate its own tax increase. Earlier in 2025, staff had originally forecasted a 5.61% tax rate increase for 2026, comprising a 4.11% general rate and a 1.5% capital levy. However, staff are now focused on cost management and operational efficiencies to reduce this figure. A staff-proposed 2026 budget was presented to the Budget Committee of the Whole on November 18, with a final council vote scheduled for December 10.
Resident feedback sought on budget priorities
As part of the 2026 budget process, the city conducted a survey to gather resident input. A summary of the results was shared by Councillor Carol Davidson in September, revealing what matters most to residents.
Based on the survey results, residents’ priorities were clear:
- Maintain services: The majority of respondents (47%) felt city services represented good value for taxes paid and preferred to maintain current service levels rather than enhancing or reducing them.
- Manage costs: Residents emphasized efficiency, cost control, and exploring new revenue streams.
- Infrastructure needs: When asked to prioritize, the core infrastructure was seen as the most important area for investment.
The survey results and resident priorities will be considered during budget deliberations, alongside provincial legislation and other external factors.
