Jacobson said built into the LRT contract will be five years of escalation costs “on that ($1 billion funding).” He said the cost of the LRT could be as high now as $1.2 billion.

Metrolinx officials have stated that they will reduce the scope of the LRT to make it fit into the $1 billion capital budget.

The Liberals under Kathleen Wynne announced the $1 billion to Hamilton in 2015.

“It concerns me we don’t have the fiscal numbers,” said Stoney Creek Coun. Brad Clark, who is opposed to the project.

Ancaster Coun. Lloyd Ferguson, who has voted in support of the LRT, said Hamilton is being “set up.” The fear is the city could be on the hook for millions of dollars, he said.

“We need to know (the finances). There are too many things that can go south on us,” he said.

Mountain Coun. Terry Whitehead said other LRT projects, such as Finch West LRT, have already gone over budget.

Mayor Fred Eisenberger said ministry officials have told him if there are any cost overruns, they will be dealt with at the appropriate time.

But Flamborough Coun. Judi Partridge, another opponent of the LRT, said there needs to be a “fulsome” discussion with Metrolinx officials about the financial realities of the LRT and what Hamilton is responsible for paying.

“This is not about being obstructionist,” said Partridge. “This is about getting information. We don’t have enough information. We are forging ahead like a train running out of control.

Eisenberger disputed that characterization, arguing the planning and financial issues remain steadfast.

“There is no runaway train wreck here,” he said. “All the information is out there on a consistent basis.”