By rdnewsNOW staff

Budget Time

Red Deer County refers Operating and Capital Budgets for public feedback

Dec 2, 2025 | 5:02 PM

Red Deer County Council has tabled the 2026-2028 Operating budget and the 2026-2030 Capital Plan in search for public input.

The decision was made during council’s regular meeting on Dec. 2, 2025.

According to county officials, the budget strives to continue to maintain service levels. They note tax rates will be set in the spring, once assessments are finalized.

“This council is eager to speed up the path to sustainability,” said Mayor Brent Ramsay, in a press release. “Recognizing there’s still work to be done in phasing out the use of reserves and yearly debentures, I’m pleased that administration is committed to help move this momentum forward.”

“Through targeted deferrals and disciplined adjustments to the capital plan, this budget progresses Red Deer County towards financial stability,” added Jeremy Graves, Corporate Services Director. “This budget brings us back to our core values of service, stewardship, and accountability, ensuring every dollar progresses what matters most to our residents and ratepayers.”

Colleges and polytechnics

RDP and Olds College ranked among top 50 research institutions in Canada

6h ago

Christmas Tradition

CPKC Holiday train to arrive in central Alberta on Dec. 8

8h ago

Near Millet

Wetaskiwin RCMP respond to fatal collision on Highway 814

8h ago

County officials say Capital spending in 2026 will decrease to $36.4M from last year’s $53.4M. Major projects include the Bridge and Paving Programs.

Key Initiatives and Infrastructure Investments for 2026:

• Bridge Program ($3.4M Grant Funding) ($7.5M)

• Paving Program ($7M)

• Re-gravel Program ($5.1M)

• Township Road 354 (Little Red Deer Road phased work) ($4.7M)

• Gasoline Alley Transit Buses ($2.7M Grant Funding) ($3.6M)

• Junction 42 Business Park Water Reservoir ($3.2M)

Members of the public have two weeks to provide feedback on the information being presented.

The draft Budget Highlights can be found online at www.rdcounty.ca/budget, public can email their suggestions to: feedback@rdcounty.ca or call 403.350.2150.

Once public comments are received, the budget will return to council on Dec. 16, 2025 for approval. Any written correspondence received will be publicly shared in council.