2026 Budget

The City of Stratford's 2026 budget process has begun, and your input is important.

New Approach for the 2026 Budget Process

• Strong Mayor Legislation: This year introduces changes in the budget process with specific direction provided by the Mayor. While staff gather and compile information, the Mayor has provided specific directions for preparing the draft budget with respect to financial impacts to residents and priorities to include or items to exclude.
• Draft Budget Release: Scheduled for October, includes the Mayor's directions from July 18, 2025.
• The Mayor’s Budget Release: The “Mayor’s Budget” is expected to be issued on November 18, 2025 and will be substantially as drafted, but may contain additional changes from the Mayor.
• Budget Meetings: Council members can propose amendments to the Mayor’s Budget. The Mayor can veto these, but a two-thirds Council majority can override the veto.
  
  

How to Make Your Voice Heard

• Regular Polls: Over the next two weeks, we will release poll questions for quick input on specific topics.

• Pop-Up Events: Engage with staff and a Council member or two to ask questions and provide feedback via interactive activities.
  • Saturday, November 1, Farmer’s Market (Agriplex) from 7 a.m. – noon
  • Monday, November 3, The Local Community Food Centre, from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
  • Saturday, November 8, Stratford Mall, from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

• Open House: Monday, November 3 from 4-7 p.m. in the City Hall Auditorium to discuss the budget, the process, ask questions or provide your feedback.
  
  
• Submit Questions or Comments: At any time before the budget adoption, you can share your thoughts through the 'Who’s Listening' section at right.