THUNDER BAY – February 5, 2026 – Thunder Bay City Council has officially approved the 2026 Municipal Operating Budget, following weeks of deliberations, public consultation, and financial review. The budget, ratified on February 3, sets the City’s course for service delivery, community growth, and investment in essential infrastructure over the coming year.
The approved Operating Budget totals $478.7 million, complementing the $160 million Capital Budget previously passed. Together, they form a $638.7 million municipal budget for 2026.
4% Municipal Tax Increase for Homeowners
Residents can expect a 4.0% increase on their 2026 municipal tax bill, translating to approximately $72 more per $100,000 of assessed residential property value. This increase reflects the funding required to maintain and improve municipal services and infrastructure.
The total property tax revenue increase is 4.4%, which includes growth-related tax from newly assessed properties. The additional 0.4% will fund services tied to development and community expansion.
“Administration took a disciplined and thoughtful approach to the budget,” said Keri Greaves, Commissioner of Corporate Services and City Treasurer. “The Council-approved budget reflects a focus on value for money for taxpayers while continuing to deliver core services and targeted enhancements that support community needs.”
Core Services and Community Priorities Remain Central
The budget meets Council’s 2.6% target for services directly under municipal control. However, higher costs from Agencies, Boards and Commissions—such as policing, transit, and emergency services—pushed the overall increase to 4%.
The 2026 Operating Budget funds:
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Essential municipal services like waste collection, transit, snow removal, and water.
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Community safety and public health.
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Growth initiatives that support long-term infrastructure development and livability.
Continued Engagement Encouraged
Thunder Bay residents played a key role in shaping the budget through community consultations and public feedback. The City encourages continued engagement through Budget Pop-up Events and by contacting your.budget@thunderbay.ca with questions or suggestions.
For detailed breakdowns and documents, visit:
👉 www.thunderbay.ca/budget
By the Numbers
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$638.7M total 2026 City Budget
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$478.7M Operating Budget
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$160M Capital Budget
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4.0% municipal tax increase for homeowners
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4.4% total property tax revenue increase (includes growth)
City Hall states that Thunder Bay’s 2026 budget aims to balance fiscal responsibility with service excellence—ensuring that residents benefit from reliable services, strategic investments, and a city prepared for long-term growth.
