Bob Gale, a Regional Councillor from Niagara Falls, believes that annual regional budget increases have gotten out of control in recent years. With this in mind, Gale is bringing forth a motion to limit the 2026 increase to the consolidated levy budget to no higher than 3.5 per cent at an upcoming council meeting.
“The past three years of property tax increases has placed a heavy, unaffordable and unsustainable tax burden on Niagara’s residents and businesses,” Gale told The Niagara Independent.
Since the 2022 fiscal year, regional property taxes have increased by 9.6 per cent, 7.02 per cent and 7.6 per cent, respectively.
“I haven’t met a single person whose wages have increased 25 per cent over three years,” said Gale. “The time to stop this is now.”
Putting these numbers into perspective, the average property with an assessed value of $278,764 would have owed about $1,743 through the regional portion of their tax bill in the fiscal year 2023, representing a $123 increase.
In 2024, those owning a property assessed to be worth $298,000 endured a property tax increase of $131, bringing the regional portion of the bill to a total of $1,989.
In 2025, owners of a same-valued property faced yet another $191 increase to the regional portion of their tax bill. This means that these homeowners are now contending with a whopping levy of nearly $2,200.
Regional Council has argued that inflation and growing needs in the areas of critical infrastructure and service delivery have created the need for larger budgets. Regular levy hikes have come under immense criticism, however, for fuelling unaffordability and limiting economic growth.
“It’s time we show leadership and take back control of the budget from the bureaucrats,” said Gale. “Enough is enough.”
Gale served the notice of motion for a maximum 3.5 per cent budget increase during a council meeting last month. His motion is set to be debated by councillors on Thursday, May 22.
“A 3.5 per cent budget addresses inflationary pressures and contractual obligations, and this is why I put forward this motion,” argued Gale. “Now let’s see what the rest of council decides on behalf of taxpayers.”
With the halfway point of 2025 quickly approaching, the Budget Committee of the Whole, chaired by Fort Erie Mayor Wayne Redekop, will be meeting monthly as preparations and consultations for the 2026 regional budget ramp up significantly.
Council will ultimately approve the 2026 budget later this fall.
Nick Redekop completed his Honours Bachelor of Arts Degree in Labour Studies at Brock University. He has previously served in municipal and federal politics. In his free time, Nick enjoys following sports, taking part in outdoor activities, and reading biographies. Nick resides in Niagara Falls
