The Town of Bancroft has released the proposed 2026 budget, prepared under strong mayor powers. It will be officially presented to council at their meeting tomorrow at 3 p.m. but is available for viewing as part of the meeting agenda on the town’s website. The draft budget states its objectives for this year include affordability, improving the town’s competitive position and long-range capital planning and sustainability. The budget proposes a net tax increase of one per cent for 2026, which would partially go towards reserve contributions. After the budget is presented tomorrow, the public consultation period runs until Feb. 6, and council will be invited to propose amendments at the council meeting on Feb. 3.