Ladysmith town council has finalized several key decisions as part of its 2026 budget deliberations. Council approved a 5.82 per cent increase over last year’s tax levy as part of the ongoing financial planning process. Early budget approvals include funding for several community priorities, including $1.19 million for artificial turf replacement at Forrest Field, $210,500 for a new playground at Brown Drive Park and $400,000 to replace a section of watermain on Buller Street. Council also approved funding for environmental initiatives, including the final phase of the Uplands remediation, public engagement on City Hall options, storm main upgrades and new composting equipment. The tax increase will support the maintenance of core services and advance infrastructure improvements as council continues work on its 2026–2030 financial plan.