Ottawa residents should prepare for higher costs across multiple city services according to the newly released 2026 draft budget. The comprehensive financial plan outlines significant spending increases that will affect everything from policing to recreational programs.
Police Services and Public Safety Investments
The Ottawa police budget is set for a substantial boost, with a 5% increase in funding proposed for 2026. This significant allocation will support the hiring of 25 new police officers to enhance community safety and response capabilities across the city.
This police budget increase represents one of the largest single allocations in the municipal spending plan. The additional resources aim to address growing public safety concerns and maintain adequate police presence in neighborhoods throughout Ottawa.
Municipal Services and Operational Costs
Beyond policing, numerous other city services will see budget increases that may translate to higher costs for residents. The draft budget, published on November 12, 2025, outlines spending priorities across all municipal departments.
While the complete list of 11 cost increases wasn't detailed in the initial announcement, the pattern suggests residents should anticipate adjustments to service fees, recreational program costs, and potential property tax increases to fund the expanded budget.
Budget Development and Public Consultation
The draft budget represents the starting point for municipal financial planning for the 2026 fiscal year. City council will now begin the process of reviewing and potentially modifying the proposed spending increases before final approval.
Public consultation sessions typically follow the release of draft budgets, allowing Ottawa residents to provide feedback on spending priorities and cost increases. These sessions offer citizens the opportunity to voice concerns about specific service fees or advocate for different allocation of resources.
The final budget approval process will unfold over the coming months, with council deliberations expected to address both the necessity of proposed increases and their impact on taxpayers.
