By Gazette Staff
December 20th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
2026 should see more in the way of public interest in municipal politics.
With an election taking place in October, public interest will be higher.
Focus Burlington, a community group that wants to see more attention paid to property taxes; they argue that the four-year 40% plus increases are not sustainable.
They will be holding a panel discussion in the middle of January that will feature people who will talk about taxes and take questions.
The event will take place at the Lions Hall.
Focus Burlington is billing this as a “community discussion on charting a new direction for our city.
“2026 is already shaping up to be a pivotal year—economically, politically, and especially at the municipal level. Across the region, signs of political unrest are emerging. In Toronto and Hamilton, rising property taxes, traffic congestion, homelessness, and intensification have pushed municipal issues to the forefront of public debate. Competitive election races are beginning to take shape, and Burlington is no exception.”
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right on Eve !!!!!!
When residents talk taxes, some choose to listen. Others choose to be absent. Nisan will probably be getting his hair done that evening ……. and be “unavailable”
This is a positive and timely step. Burlington has seen civic engagement evolve from ECOB, to BRAG, and now Focus Burlington – each reflecting residents’ growing concern about direction, affordability, and accountability. Property taxes rising more than 40% over four years is not sustainable, and a public, open panel discussion is exactly the kind of engagement needed heading into 2026.
As someone who was fully engaged in the 2018 election and voted for change, it’s fair to ask what happened? The values many of us stood for – fiscal responsibility, transparency, and listening to residents – feel increasingly distant.
If you believe Burlington needs a course correction, this is the moment. The 2026 election offers a real opportunity for the right change, grounded in informed discussion and community involvement.
I Will be there!
Tell Councillor Nisan they will have photo ops and he will guarantee to attend. He won’t say much as he is useless
2026 is the year of the Municipal Elections. For some residents it is the opportunity to make some changes. Others are happy with the status quo and will vote to keep their council the same.
The most important thing is to take the time to meet with those who will be running for election or re-election. Attend any public information events that will enable you to make an educated choice.
I am very glad to see that FOCUS will be offering these 2 events. This first event will be taking place on TUESDAY, JANUARY 20 AT 7PM AT THE BURLINGTON LIONS CLUB ON PEARL STREET. Free parking is available.
“Their first event will feature a panel discussion with well-known and respected community members who bring firsthand experience with local government and the work of Burlington’s mayor and council. Panellists will offer candid perspectives on how effectively our city is functioning, where progress is being made, and where improvement is needed. Their insights will be valuable not only to those considering a run for public office but also to residents seeking a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing Burlington.”
It is important to know who is running in your ward, listen to what they are promising and ask questions.
Make certain that their platforms are in their purview to accomplish.
If residents want change, they have to VOTE on election day.