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Your turn: Budgets across the region


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This week's roundup of calls for engagement includes opportunities for the public to have input into municipal budgets across the region.

Sturgeon County's proposed budget has no residential property tax increase. The county said major industrial investments, including data centres and oil and gas investments, are expected to increase the county's tax base over the coming years, taking pressure off of tax rates. However, the county is still facing inflation, increased service demand, and other higher costs. The county said it plans to use development revenue and limited short-term borrowing to manage the timing between major costs and expected new revenue.

The county said the proposed budget will commit its largest-ever spend on municipal projects, such as a new fire hall, roadway improvements, and high-speed internet installation.

The City of Spruce Grove's administration has proposed a 3.9% property tax increase for 2027. About $4.7 million would be directed towards community initiatives, such as the Spruce Grove Public Library, small business development, and the TransAlta Tri-Leisure Centre. The budget includes $12 million to preserve the Horizon Stage theatre, which is located in the Spruce Grove Composite High School, a facility set for demolition. Administration proposes twinning Grove Drive using developer levies.

Spruce Grove residents can participate in a public Q-and-A on Nov. 2 or submit a question in advance.

In St. Albert, the city administration has proposed a 4.5% property tax increase. The proposed operating budget is $244 million, and the proposed capital budget is $53.1 million. Administration recommends funding pedestrian improvements on Perron Street and St. Anne Street; new buses and an optimized transit plan; and new neighbourhood parks.

St. Albert is collecting feedback through an online survey until Nov. 5. Residents can also speak at council meetings on Nov. 3, 24, 26, and 30, and Dec. 15.

Leduc's administration has proposed a $155.6-million operating budget for 2027. City staff will also present a four-year capital plan with total spending of $246.4 million. About 40% of that funding is allocated to the West Leduc Recreation Centre. Leduc residents can speak to council on Nov. 2 and 9. Council is expected to finalize the budget on Dec. 7.

Alberta's municipalities are required to approve a budget by the end of the year. Edmonton is set to release its proposed budget on Nov. 2.

A rendering of a data centre

A rendering of Meta's planned data centre in Sturgeon County, which administration suggested will help keep taxes low in the future. (Meta)

Here are some other opportunities to provide input in the Edmonton metro region:

"Your turn" is Taproot's weekly collection of public engagement opportunities in the Edmonton region. Watch this space every week for opportunities to make your views known. If you know of a request for public input, send it to hello@taprootedmonton.ca.