As I head into my third year serving as your Councillor, I’ve had the opportunity to step back and reflect on what we’ve accomplished together and what those experiences have taught us about planning for Fort Erie’s future.
This year’s budget builds on real progress. We’ve continued to invest in the services residents rely on every day, while keeping a close eye on longterm costs. We’ve strengthened our financial planning, improved how information is shared, and worked to make sure decisions are made with both common sense and community impact in mind.
I also want to acknowledge that these are tough times for many people. Rising costs are affecting households across our community, and every dollar the Town spends has a real impact on the people paying their bills and trying to make ends meet. That reality has been front and centre in every budget discussion and decision this year.
Some of the wins this year include maintaining strong core services while managing budget pressures, continuing to invest in infrastructure and community spaces, and improving transparency around how dollars are spent. We’ve also made progress in planning ahead recognizing that responsible growth means preparing now rather than reacting later.
Just as important as the wins are the lessons learned along the way.
What We’ve Learned
- Good planning matters. Taking the time to plan properly helps avoid surprises and keeps costs under control.
- Transparency builds trust. Clear communication about where money is going makes it easier for residents to understand and engage.
- Small improvements add up. Refining processes year over year leads to stronger results than chasing quick fixes.
- Listening makes better decisions. Feedback from residents helps shape smarter, more balanced choices.
Year three has reinforced that budgeting isn’t just about numbers it’s about priorities. It’s about maintaining what we have, improving where we can, and being prepared for what’s ahead without placing unnecessary pressure on taxpayers.
Below, I’ve shared highlights from this year’s budget and an overview of how the Town’s financial planning process works. I encourage you to take a look, ask questions, and stay involved. Your input continues to shape the decisions we make.
Together, we’re building a stronger, more sustainable Fort Erie one year at a time.
Where do the taxes you pay go?
Tax distribution & Value for Tax Dollar
Services funded by your Property Tax Bill: Fort Erie’s tax bill accounts for three agencies. The Town collects the property taxes for all three and then pays the Region and the School Board portions to them, which they use to deliver their services. The Town of Fort Erie’s portion of the tax bill is used to deliver a number of services that make Fort Erie a place to grow, prosper and belong.
In 2026, this means for the average residential home with an assessed value of $200,300, property taxes paid would be approximately $3,806;
- $1,890 collected on behalf of the Niagara Region and paid to the Region,
- $306 collected on behalf of the School Boards and paid to the School Boards, and
- $1,610 retained by the Town to pay its programs and services as follows;
Capital Budget Investment
Explore how the Town of Fort Erie continues to invest in our community’s infrastructure and quality of life. Below are highlights on the capital investments by service area.
These investments reflect our commitment to maintaining essential services, supporting sustainable growth, and enhancing public spaces for residents and visitors.
2025 Capital Budget (CBC-01-2025): Click here
2025 Water and Wastewater Operating Budget: Click here
2025 General Levy Operating Budget: Click here
2025 General Levy Operating Budget Presentation: Click Here