Cambridge sets sights on close to 5 per cent tax increase for 2026 budget
Posted Oct 28, 2025 07:06:34 AM.
Last Updated Oct 28, 2025 10:49:29 AM.
The City of Cambridge is proposing an almost 5 per cent increase in taxes heading into 2026, as budget season continues across Waterloo Region.
The number, coming from the city’s proposed Strong Mayor Budget, includes three main areas that will receive attention in Cambridge.
It includes 2.06 per cent slated for the opening of the city’s new recreation complex, 1 per cent for an incremental infrastructure levy, as well as 1.8 per cent for base budget and “growth-related impacts net of assessment growth,” inclusive of 0.47 per cent for the new library branch.
“The city’s budget is so much more than numbers on a page,” said Cambridge Mayor Jan Liggett. “It reflects the strategic priorities of the community and shapes the Cambridge of the future as a premier destination for families to call home, businesses to succeed, and visitors to enjoy festivals, events, and recreation – the full Cambridge experience.”
The number of 4.86 per cent compares with the budget increase for 2025, which was listed at 1.28 per cent.
In the 2026 budget, the city has stated that it will help to maintain all existing service levels within Cambridge, while also funding initiatives to support top priorities.
According to recent community surveys it has received, the city said those main priorities listed by residents range from the city’s assets, including roads and bridges, to the opening of the recreation centre and library branch, as well as preserving city-owned heritage sites and strengthening the city’s fire services.
“We have worked hard to ensure the budget reflects both fiscal responsibility and community priorities,” Liggett said. “We know times are tough for many, and this plan strikes the right balance between affordability today and investment in tomorrow.”
Alongside the budget for the city, staff have also presented Cambridge’s water utility budget, proposing a rate increase of 4.21 per cent. That equates to an average increase of $50 in 2026 for homeowners.
That specific budget includes Cambridge’s water, wastewater, and stormwater services, of which $28 is specifically slated for the cost to treat wastewater and purchase water from the Region of Waterloo.
Both budgets are still proposals, nothing is finalized as of yet, with the opportunity for residents to have their voices heard still possible.
“Public engagement is a vital part of the City’s budget process, helping ensure decisions reflect community priorities and that residents have a voice in how their
tax dollars are invested,” read a statement from the City of Cambridge.
Community members will be able to speak during an upcoming public delegation meeting on Nov. 6 in council chambers or virtually by registering as a delegate online. That can be done through the city’s website.
Anyone unable to attend the upcoming meeting can also submit written correspondence to the city by emailing clerks@cambridge.ca.
The full details on the proposed Strong Mayor Budget for 2026 can be found on the City of Cambridge website.
