Windsor Mayor Pushes for 0.0% Tax Increase Amid Economic Strain

UPDATE: Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens has just announced his push for a 0.0% property tax increase for the upcoming fiscal year, emphasizing that this decision is not tied to his potential re-election campaign. Speaking on CBC Radio, Dilkens stated that maintaining the current tax rate is solely a response to the economic challenges facing the community, particularly the impacts of recent U.S. policies.

Dilkens, who has not yet declared whether he will seek a fourth term in the next municipal elections set for October 26, 2026, clarified that his budget proposal should not be viewed as a political maneuver. “I can assure you with 100 percent certainty that this is entirely related to the pain in the community,” he emphasized during the interview.

The mayor highlighted the ongoing economic difficulties exacerbated by the policies of former President Donald Trump, noting that Windsor is experiencing “downstream effects” from these policies. “We knew border cities like ours were going to get hit first and hardest,” Dilkens added, referring to the formation of the Border Mayors Alliance to address these pressing challenges.

Windsor’s unemployment rate remains the highest in Canada at 10.4% for September, down from 11.1% in August, according to Statistics Canada. This stark statistic underscores the urgency of maintaining fiscal stability for residents as the city navigates economic uncertainty.

In 2025, Windsor’s budget included a 2.99% tax increase, with projections indicating a further 4.2% increase for the next year to sustain essential services amidst rising operational costs. Janice Guthrie, Windsor’s commissioner of finance, previously noted that keeping property taxes flat or close to inflation levels would be “challenging,” given the increasing costs for supplies, fuel, and employee contracts.

Dilkens is currently revising budget recommendations from senior city staff and engaging with city councillors to finalize proposals ahead of the public budget document release scheduled for January 2024. Potential spending cuts mentioned earlier, including closing swimming pools and libraries, may still be on the table as officials look for ways to balance the budget.

As Windsor grapples with these economic pressures, residents are urged to stay informed about upcoming budget discussions and the implications for local services. The community’s financial health remains a top priority for Mayor Dilkens as he navigates these challenging waters.

Windsor’s residents are encouraged to engage in discussions about the budget and its potential impact on their daily lives. With a critical year ahead, the mayor’s decisions will shape the city’s economic landscape and the wellbeing of its citizens. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.