Terry Parlow

The council convened to hear community feedback and conduct discussions regarding the 2026 budget. Key agenda items included receiving presentations on the 2026 proposed budget from the Brandon Chamber of Commerce and the Brandon Police Board, as well as hearing public comments regarding off-leash dog parks and budget priorities. The council received various finance and economic development reports, approved administrative pre-budget adjustments, and directed the allocation of a projected surplus toward tax reduction and council priorities. Additionally, the council voted to cancel the upcoming regular meeting.

The council convened to review presentations regarding the 2026 proposed budget. Key discussion topics included an organic diversion pilot program, city and transit fleet replacement plans, train whistle cessation, and a crosswalk enhancement program. The council also adopted recommendations from the Grants Review Committee for the proposed 2026 budget.

The council discussed various municipal matters, including feedback on a proposed condominium development, verbal reports from the local police board and the general museum and archives, and received updates on pothole maintenance and sidewalk snow clearing. General business items included a council compensation review, a land subdivision application for Victoria Avenue, and the approval of an accessible customer service policy. The council also processed several by-laws, including rezoning applications, infrastructure drainage improvements, road closures, and a borrowing by-law for the design and construction of an outdoor aquatics facility.

The council held a special meeting to review 2026 budget deliberations through departmental presentations from Corporate Services, Brandon Police Services, Fire and Emergency Services, Development Services, and Operational Services. Key actions included approving administrative amendments to the 2026 capital budget, integrating 2025 rebudgets into the 2026 proposal, and making determinations regarding new staffing positions and salary deferrals.

The City Council conducted deliberations on the 2026 Operating and Capital Budgets, resulting in numerous amendments. Key discussion items included adjustments to Public Safety Basket Funding, allocation of surplus funds for council priorities, and expenditure modifications related to recreation staff, street sweepers, community center construction, and public washrooms. The council also addressed grant funding for various community organizations, Indigenous Reconciliation initiatives, and upgrades to local infrastructure, including transit bus stops, playground enhancements, and community gardens. Additionally, the council reviewed the 10-year Capital Plan, discussed various operating budget reductions, and held executive sessions to discuss personnel matters.