Ontario Construction News staff writer
Niagara Falls has released the 2026 Mayor’s Proposed Capital Budget, outlining $78.5 million in recommended capital spending for the coming year, including major investments in infrastructure maintenance, growth-related projects and service improvements.
The budget will be presented by staff at a special council meeting on Nov. 25 at 4 p.m.
City staff reviewed 118 capital project submissions with a total value of $83.3 million and are recommending funding for 112 projects, worth $78.5 million. About $27.6 million of the funding would come from grants and external contributions.
The spending plan allocates 40 per cent, or $31.4 million, to maintaining existing assets, while 39 per cent, or $30.9 million, is earmarked for growth and strategic investment. The remaining 21 per cent — $16.2 million — would go toward service level enhancements.
Staff say the proposals were prioritized using a new evaluation system applied during this year’s budget cycle, assessing each project across 14 criteria to ensure consistent ranking.
The budget process follows new timelines introduced under Ontario’s Strong Mayor powers. Council will have a 30-day window, from Nov. 4 to Dec. 3, to propose amendments unless the period is shortened by council resolution. The mayor would then have up to 10 days — Dec. 4 to 13 — to veto any changes. Council could override a veto with a two-thirds vote during a 15-day period ending Dec. 28.
Residents wishing to address council on the capital plan can request a delegation by submitting a written request to the clerk at least 24 hours before the Nov. 25 meeting. Written comments may also be submitted.
In 2023, there were several legislative changes under the Strong Mayor’s Act and the key dates pertaining to the mayor’s proposed 2026 Capital Budget have been summarized below:
- 30-Day Review Period (for Council Amendments)
- Nov. 4, 2025, to Dec. 3, 2025 (unless shortened by way of Council Resolution)
- 10-Day Veto Period (Mayor’s opportunity to veto amendments)
- Dec. 4, 2025, to Dec. 13, 2025 (unless shortened by written notice from the Mayor)
- This will only apply if there are Council Amendments brought forward during the 30 Day review period
- 15-day Override Period (Council override of Mayor’s Veto 2/3 majority)
- Dec. 14, 2025, to Dec. 28, 2025 (unless shortened by way of Council Resolution)
- This is only applicable if the Mayor exercises his Veto during the 10 Day Veto Period
Requests for Delegations to Council shall be submitted in writing to the Clerk 24 hours prior to the commencement of the Meeting via the following link: https://surveys.niagarafalls.ca/s3/Delegations-or-Appointment-to-Council