...Brad Bradford's One-Year Property Tax Freeze Pledge for Toronto...

Toronto mayoral candidate Brad Bradford has announced a one-year property tax freeze if elected, promising an independent review of city spending. Bradford suggests this freeze could be funded through recurring gaps in the city's budget, such as those observed in recent years. His proposal aims to provide clarity and stability for property tax rates, potentially benefiting businesses and residents alike.

Under Bradford's proposal, the freeze would apply to the city tax rate for both residential and commercial properties. He says an independent group of experts and former city leaders would lead the review, examining every city division, agency, and program to identify potential waste, duplication, and outdated programs while protecting frontline services.

Bradford argues that a year of certainty around property taxes could provide relief for employers, making Toronto more competitive for businesses and investment. The proposal comes as the city's 2026 budget includes a combined 2.2 per cent increase in residential property taxes. Bradford's campaign claims that the city's property-tax-supported spending came in below budget by about $100 million in 2025 and $130 million in 2024, suggesting that a one-year property tax increase could be funded through these recurring gaps.

Bradford also notes that, following the spending review, future property tax increases under his plan would be kept below the rate of inflation. His proposal aims to give the city time to conduct a thorough review of its spending, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently and effectively.