By rdnewsNOW staff

Small tax rate increase planned for Blackfalds in 2019

Nov 13, 2018 | 1:07 PM

Blackfalds residents can expect to see a small tax rate increase next year.

With the town’s population eclipsing 10,000 in the latest census, the sustained growth means The Town has taken a conservative view regarding its budget and is said to have prioritized spending on what would benefit its residents.

According to Town officials, council and administration participated in their annual budget retreat weekend with the objective to formally adopt the 2019 operating capital budget by mid-December.

“The Town of Blackfalds continues to hold into account the challenging economic climate which, although improving, still remains,” states Mayor Richard Poole, in a press release. “This has been reflected in the Town’s budget deliberations which to date includes a modest tax increase.”

Based on the feedback received from residents through the Citizen Budget online engagement, the September 10 public open house, and as a result of the current economy, the Town is looking at a slight increase in taxes of 1.5%, well below the Consumer Price Index for Alberta.

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Officials say this approach will allow the Town to continue its existing level of service of current programs while also proceeding with capital projects that will benefit the Town in the long term.   

The budget was developed with a three-year budget forecast in mind and a ten-year funded Capital Projects plan.

Blackfalds residents are encouraged to join council at the Blackfalds & District Chamber of Commerce Christmas Trade Show – the Merry Market – this weekend at the Abbey Centre.

Doors are open from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

For more details, visit www.blackfalds.com.