By Pepper Parr
February 21st, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
Hamilton Mayor Andrea Horwath has said she might change the tax increase Council has approved.
Hamilton City Council whittled a proposed tax hike from 4.25 per cent to 3.87 per cent.
City Staff had proposed a 5.5 per cent hike.
Burlington decided on a 5.8% increase. Mayor Meed Ward prefers to use the 4.89% number, a sleight of hand the Mayor uses frequently.
Burlington has had budget increases that amounted to a 44.90% increase during the current term of Council
Horwath — who can veto amendments as part of strong-mayor powers — said she plans to take the time to look at all amendments before making a final decision.
While Hamilton City Council has gotten a little wacky at times, they have shown that when they put their shoulder to the wheel they can do the job they were elected to do.
Burlington Councillors just don’t seem to have that capacity.
This City Council does not appear to be able to create a budget that meets the needs of the taxpayers.
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According to the record, most burlington councillors. Only 1 of the 7 had the capacity and voted against the increase, that councillor is Lisa Kearns.