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Toronto Mayor Proposes Controversial Tax Hikes Ahead of Election

1/8/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow will propose a 2.2% tax increase, a 0.7% residential property tax hike and a 1.5% city building fund increase.
The move follows 9.5% increases in 2024 and 6.9% in 2025.
Critics say the budget is austerity and politically motivated ahead of the fall election.
Since taking office, Chow has raised fees and taxes, producing a 20% rise in homeowner tax bills, as Toronto's 2026 mayoral race begins.

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Story summary

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow will propose a 2.2% tax increase, a 0.7% residential property tax hike and a 1.5% city building fund increase.
The move follows 9.5% increases in 2024 and 6.9% in 2025.
Critics say the budget is austerity and politically motivated ahead of the fall election.
Since taking office, Chow has raised fees and taxes, producing a 20% rise in homeowner tax bills, as Toronto's 2026 mayoral race begins.