Core Services Review

The Core Services Review is a comprehensive review and analysis of all Niagara Region's programs and services. It will create a full inventory of our services and will quantify the effectiveness and efficiency of those services.

This inventory will help staff and council find ways to keep property tax increases reasonable while still providing the services our community depends on.

The Core Services Review will support budget discussions at Council and provide valuable data to help make the most informed decisions possible. The Core Services Review is being completed in partnership with Ernst & Young.

Timeline

June 2026 - Project started
July 2026 - Gathering data exercise #1
August 2026 - Continue data gathering and analysis
Fall 2026 - Deliver final report and recommendations to Regional Council

Overview of Core Services Review at Regional Council

Watch the overview presentation at Regional Council or review the Core Services Review update.

Watch all Council and Committee meetings.

How the results will be used

The Core Services Review will not only help inform Council's future budget decisions and business plans, but it will also provide valuable data that our leadership teams can leverage to locate opportunities for innovation.

Governance changes

On May 7, 2026, the province passed the Better Regional Governance Act, which made changes to the composition of Regional Council and to the duties of the Regional Chair.

The Core Services Review will allow Niagara's new Council to make well-informed decisions based on comprehensive data and analysis.

Learn more about governance changes in Niagara.