Proposed 2026 Budget Prepared for Council’s Consideration

Type
News Release
Date

The Town of Comox staff will present the 2026 proposed operating budget at the Regular Meeting of Council on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, beginning at 5 p.m. in Council Chambers located at 1801B Beaufort Avenue, Comox.   

To begin the budget planning process, Council will use the 2022 – 2026 Strategic Plan as a guiding document for the projects and deliverables they would like to achieve in the upcoming year. The draft budget has two main goals. The proposed budget will focus on investment in infrastructure renewal and support for existing programs and services.

For the last several years, Town staff have been developing the data to better understand the recognized infrastructure gap, which must be prioritized. An infrastructure gap refers to the Town’s need to fund and support ongoing work and replacement of facilities, roads, underground pipes, parks, trails and sidewalks, etc. 

Investing in our town’s infrastructure is crucial for the future sustainability of our community. Well-maintained roads, parks, trails and facilities are essential assets that deteriorate over time, requiring replacement or upkeep, especially for those constructed decades ago to ensure continued functionality for future generations.   

Key infrastructure details include:

  • The Town owns and manages $362,000,000 in assets, equating to an average of $63,500 per household. 
  • The Town requires $3.2 million invested in infrastructure a year to maintain current service levels.

Here are some key dates leading up to the approval of the budget: 

DateType of Presentation
October 22, 2025, 5 p.m. Council ChambersDraft Operating and Capital Budget  
November 5, 2025, 5 p.m. Council ChambersAdditional Budget Deliberations and Approval, if required
Date to be Announced 
April 2026, 5 p.m. Council Chambers
Tax setting after BC assessment releases its updated property roll numbers

The community can follow the budget process by visiting the Town’s website at comox.ca/budget. Residents are encouraged to participate actively by addressing Council in person during the ‘public question period’ at the Regular Council meetings listed in the table, or by emailing council@comox.ca . Whether in person at 1801B Beaufort Avenue or listening online on the Comox YouTube Channel, your involvement shapes the future of our Town.     

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Media Contact:
Jordan Wall, Chief Administrative Officer     
jwall@comox.ca
250-339-2202