Ontario Construction news staff writer
The city of Niagara Falls has released its Mayor’s Proposed Capital Budget for 2026, featuring 118 proposed projects valued at $83.3 million.
City staff will present the budget at a Special Council meeting on Nov. 25 at 4 p.m., in line with a July directive (MD-2025) to prepare and review the capital plan.
The budget book, available here, includes business cases for each project, which were evaluated using a new pilot prioritization system based on 14 criteria to ensure a consistent assessment process. Of the 118 submissions, 112 projects are recommended for funding, totaling $78.5 million, including $27.6 million in grants and external contributions.
The 2026 capital budget includes:
- 40% ($31.4M) is dedicated to maintaining existing assets
- 39% ($30.9M) supports growth and strategic investments
- 21% ($16.2M) focuses on service level enhancements
Several legislative changes under the Strong Mayor’s Act now govern key dates for the budget process:
- 30-Day Review Period for Council Amendments: Nov. 4 to Dec. 3, 2025 (may be shortened by council resolution)
- 10-Day Mayor Veto Period: December 4 to Dec. 13, 2025 (only applies if council amendments are made)
- 15-Day Council Override Period: Dec. 14 to 28 (only applies if the Mayor exercises a veto)
Stakeholders wishing to provide input may do so by submitting a delegation request to council or by providing written correspondence. Delegation requests must be submitted in writing to the City Clerk at least 24 hours before the meeting using this link.
For questions related to the capital budget, contact James Dowling, deputy treasurer, at finance@niagarafalls.ca.
