Media Release: TBSSAB Board of Directors approves 2026 Budget

December 15, 2025 – The District of Thunder Bay Social Services Administration Board (TBDSSAB) received approval from its Board of Directors for the 2026 operating and capital budgets at their December meeting.

The 2026 operating budget totals $133,091,900 and represents an increase of $411,100, or 0.3%, from the 2025 approved budget of $132,680,800. The proposed 2026 Capital Budget totals $2,915,000 and includes 71 projects identified through four main categories: demand, planned, green, risk management.

Most of the operating budget (67.7%) is for external transfer payments for individuals, families, and funded agencies. External funding is provided for social services consistent with TBDSSAB’s legislated service requirements through Ontario Works, Child Care and EarlyON programs, community housing, and homelessness prevention programs. The remainder will go toward program administration, personnel services, housing operations, and repayment of long-term debts such as mortgages for direct-owned housing properties.

The proposed 2026 Operating Budget results in a total increase to the Municipal Levy of $963,000, or 3.6%, compared to the Board-approved 2025 Levy. In accordance with the District Social Services Administration Boards Act, this levy apportionment is calculated using weighted assessment.

Quotes:

“The Board was quite impressed with this year’s budget proposal process. Administration presented a budget that was well planned, detailed, and offered the Board enough context to understand the impact of every dollar on staff and the people we serve. I am confident that the 2026 budget will support the organization to achieve its strategic objectives in the year ahead.”
– Brian Hamilton, Chair, TBDSSAB

“I am grateful to the Board for their thoughtful and compassionate response to the proposed budget. I look forward to what’s coming up in the year ahead.”
– Ken Ranta, Chief Executive Officer, TBDSSAB

Attachment:

  1. TBDSSAB What We Fund: Understanding the 2026 Budget (PDF)

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