City Council Passes Budget which includes a tax requirement increase of 7.1 percent

Brandon City Council has approved the 2025 budget, which is centered around sustainable growth and ensuring a better future for Brandon families. This budget continues Council’s commitment to maintaining essential services while planning for long-term sustainability.

The 2025 budget includes a tax requirement increase of 7.1%, translating to a 6.9% rise in the municipal portion of the average property owner’s tax bill.

Major Projects Supporting Sustainable Growth include:

• $30.7 million for wastewater infrastructure enhancements and preservation, including the Southwest Wastewater Servicing Project

• $18.2 million for various Fleet projects, including the purchase of 2 transit buses and refurbishment of the remaining transit fleet

• $18.9 million for land drainage improvements, including the Southeast Drainage Project

• $16.1 million for Facilities, including the new Police Operations Centre

• $12.8 million for Parks & Recreation Services, including upgrades to Brandon’s Community Sportsplex arena, Maple Leaf Foods Sports Complex, and various playground replacements

• $1.2 million for solid waste projects, including a diversion depot and an AI system for collection trucks

Additional highlights include:

• $100,000 for a Tree Enhancement program

• $50,000 toward the Medical Doctor recruitment program

• $250,000 toward the Street Preservation program

• $50,000 toward the Sidewalk & Curb Preservation focused on accessibility upgrades

• Up to $100,000 for a pedestrian corridor on Victoria Ave E near Russell St.

• $200,000 for additional pothole remediation

• Additional funding toward community organizations

Other notable items in the approved operating budget include increased funding for improved road and property restoration, a new low-income water audit / fixture subsidy program, and enhanced Transit security.

This budget plan ensures that Brandon continues to thrive, providing a sustainable and prosperous future for all its residents.

“Brandon families rely on a high quality of life and reasonable taxes, which is what we aim to provide,” said Mayor Jeff Fawcett. “This budget is focused on addressing essential needs, ensuring entitlements, and prioritizing key aspects such as clean water, safe streets, and a livable city. We’re going to continue to focus on our plan to sustainability that we started last year with a focus on rebuilding long-term sustainability in Brandon’s finances.”

“We would also like to thank the province for the $1 million investment in critical capital infrastructure toward the Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium. This allowed us to achieve a one percent lower tax increase than expected,” said Fawcett. “By focusing the 2025 budget on urgent needs and re-prioritizing infrastructure repairs and construction projects, City Council is confident we’re putting Brandon on a sustainable path.”