Council to consider reduced 2018 Capital Budget

Later this month, Red Deer city council will debate a 2018 Capital Budget worth $81.05 million.

That estimate is the lowest proposed capital budget in 10 years, a sign of the economic times according to City Manager Craig Curtis.

“In recognition of the reduced levels of growth in Red Deer, with a continued reduced rate predicted for the next several years, administration is bringing forward one of the smallest capital budgets we have seen in a decade,” Curtis said. “We recognized the challenges, took a proactive approach, and developed a budget to reflect that.”

Curtis added it’s typical for municipalities to experience a lag in recovery for up to two years after the economy begins to recover.

“It will take The City a while longer to start to see that positive impact on City finances,” he said, stating it is imperative for Red Deer to focus on sustainability planning for growth and infrastructure and building the city’s future through council’s vision.

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“Our focus is, and always will be providing quality services and facilities for Red Deerians,” said Curtis. “This capital budget will allow us to focus on items previously approved, and maintain the great amenities, community and infrastructure we have in place. As our economic conditions improve, we will revisit projects and plan to build for growth.”

The smaller budget also means a number of projects have been delayed, thus causing the Capital Budget reduction of close to $30 million from what was anticipated a year ago.

Projects which have been pushed back include the Northland Drive ring-road and some work on North of Hwy 11A.

The largest capital projects proposed for 2018 include water utility infrastructure, wastewater treatment plant rehabilitation, pavement rehabilitation and roadway construction. Others which are noteworthy include funding for enhancements at Heritage Ranch, tree replacement dollars following the June 20 windstorm, funding for various things at Red Deer Airport, expansion of the Bower Ponds pavilion and upgrades to the flagpole area of City Hall Park.

As for the Capital Plan, which stretches from 2019 to 2027, it is valued at $1.33 billion.

Notable items included in the plan are a multi-use aquatic centre, expansion and twinning of the G.H. Dawe Community Centre, further restoration of the CPR Bridge, a pickleball tournament site and the aforementioned ring-road and North of 11A projects.

Residents are invited to offer feedback on the budget between now and November 24 at 4:30 p.m. Capital Budget debate is to get underway starting at 9 a.m. on November 29.

To provide your input, you can email legislativeservices@reddeer.ca or provide in writing at any branch of Red Deer Public Library, City Hall, Collicutt Centre or the Recreation Centre.

The proposed budget is available for viewing at the City’s website.