Council approves 2021 budget.

Council approved the 2021 operational and capital budgets at Tuesday’s Council Meeting.

“Council has adopted a budget that ensures we are able to continue to provide the programs and services our residents and businesses need even in the most challenging times,” said Deputy Mayor Tracy Melnyk.  “Understanding the impacts taxation has on the lives of our residents, Council has strived to ensure a very modest tax increase while balancing the current economic climate with the future.” 

“Recognizing the hard times we’re facing, Administration has worked diligently to put together a budget that sees cost reductions where possible, yet maintains service levels, with a focus on road maintenance, recreation, and a safe and secure community for our residents and business community,” said Laura Swain, Interim Chief Administrative Officer. “The 2021 budget will help ensure stability in the tax rate for years to come, while keeping the present tax increase to a minimum. I am proud of the work put forward by Council and Administration to ensure our community receives the services and supports they need most in these challenging circumstances.”

Overall, the 2021 budget contains a net municipal tax requirement of $61.7 million, which is approximately $500,000 less than the 2020 budget and represents a 0.8% decrease in the net municipal tax levy. Due to a projected decrease in assessment values, the average residential property owner will see an increase of 1.52% or $31 per year. The average non-residential owner will see an increase of 1.53% or $672 per year.

The 2021 municipal operating budget includes $20,036,600 in revenues (other than taxation); $82,280,900 in expenditures (including amortization and other levies); and a municipal tax requirement of $62,244,300.

The 2021 municipal capital budget includes $37,799,200 in revenues (other than taxation); $38,524,200 in expenditures, a municipal tax requirement of $725,000.

The final municipal tax rate will be approved in April 2021. Parkland County tax notices include items beyond the municipal requirement reflected in the budget presented to Council. These items include costs associated with the TransAlta Tri-Leisure Centre, the Meridian Housing Foundation, the Edmonton Metropolitan Region Board, and the school portion of taxes, which the County collects on behalf of the province.

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For more information about this advisory, please contact:

Communications

Phone:  780-968-8432

E-mail: communications@parklandcounty.com