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- calendar_today November 10, 2026
2027 Budget Approved by Fredericton Council
Fredericton's city council has formally approved its budget for 2027, prioritizing public safety and delivering property tax reductions for most residents. The decision was finalized during a council meeting on Monday night, following an earlier endorsement in principle by a council committee the previous week.
Property Tax Reductions for Most Residents
The approved budget includes notable decreases in property tax rates. Households facing the inside tax rate will experience a reduction of 4.67 cents, setting the new rate at $1.2619. Those paying the outside rate will see their rate lowered by 0.77 cents to $1.1988. Councillor Colin Ebbett, chair of the municipal finance and corporate administration committee, stated that approximately 90 per cent of residents will benefit from these decreases.
Reflecting Resident Priorities
"This year carries extra meaning because this is the first budget developed by this newly-elected council," Ebbett said, emphasizing that the budget reflects priorities shared by residents across the city. He noted the importance of consensus and community input in shaping the spending plan.
Public Safety Funding and Policing Changes
Public safety stands out as a central theme in the 2027 budget. The Fredericton Police Force's direct action response team is set to receive an additional $1.14 million to expand its staff and vehicle fleet. This team is tasked with responding to public drug use and addressing petty crime.
Ebbett acknowledged persistent concerns from residents and the business community regarding the effects of addiction and socio-economic pressures. He stressed that the city's mandate is to fund public safety and that residents deserve to feel secure in their community.
However, Deputy Mayor Ruth Breen voted against the increased policing funding, arguing that the city cannot resolve such crises through policing alone. Despite her opposition, the motion passed with Ebbett noting that addressing the issue requires action from both provincial and federal governments as well.
Investments in Community Vibrancy and Infrastructure
In addition to public safety, the budget includes funding to increase maintenance and staffing of city sports fields, expand affordable and no-cost recreational programming, and support affordable housing initiatives. These allocations are aimed at enhancing community vibrancy and the overall quality of life for residents.
City staff identified approximately $2 million in savings, which helped finance these new and expanded services. Ebbett highlighted that the budget maintains high service levels while investing in strategic areas valued by residents.
Infrastructure and Utility Changes
The budget addresses ongoing city infrastructure needs, with Ebbett emphasizing the renewal of aging resources and the importance of supporting future growth. While water and sewer charges will increase slightly, Ebbett assured that Fredericton's water bills remain among the lowest compared to similar cities.
Changes also include a $5 increase for adult, student, and senior transit passes. Parking meter rates will rise by 50 cents, and rates for certain parking lots and garages will go up as well.
Council and Administrative Remarks
Mayor Steve Hicks concluded the meeting by thanking Councillor Ebbett and city staff for their work on the budget. While several councillors had previously voiced opinions when the budget was approved in principle, only Ebbett spoke at the final meeting. CBC News requested an interview with police Chief Gary Forward regarding the budget's public safety focus, but he declined to comment and directed inquiries to the city spokesperson.
Source: cbc.ca.
