2026 Budget priorities

Investing in city operations and asset maintenance, including forestry service for improved air quality and vibrant outdoor recreational spaces; transit maintenance to limit service disruptions; and support to protect against cyber security threats to ensure continuity of essential city services and safeguarding of personal information.

Capital program needs as identified in Burlington’s 2025 Corporate Asset Management Plan, including renewal of our aging roads to ensure they remain safe and reliable now and into the future; and stormwater system improvements and related infrastructure to help reduce the risk of flooding.

Improving services, including better waste management in parks, for cleaner parks and public spaces now and in the future; an expansion of the windrow removal program to support accessibility and community well-being; new active transportation facilities to provide a wide range of safe, accessible options for getting around Burlington as our city grows; and the revitalization of aging recreation facilities to improve accessibility and enhance customer experience.

Supporting the operations of new infrastructure investments made in previous budget years, such as expanded transit service to provide efficient, sustainable options for getting around Burlington as our city grows; and information technology capital projects to enhance City operations and proactively meet customer needs.

Meeting inflationary pressures, including higher construction costs and tariffs on materials.

Identifying efficiencies and establishing clear priorities to find savings, avoid unnecessary costs, and make the most of available resources.

Addressing assessment growth which brings more tax revenue and increases the need for expanded services and infrastructure to support a growing community, such as roadways, parkland and facilities.