Lacombe City council has approved the 2025 capital budget, which includes 22 projects at the anticipated cost of $10.7 million
The budget funding sources include $2.5 million from grant funding, $4.9 million from reserve fund withdrawals, $1.8 million from other sources, and $1.6 million from debentures, according to a release.
“The 2025 capital budget allows council to fund essential infrastructure in Lacombe,” said Mayor Grant Creasey. “The projects in this budget are all critical investments, ensuring Lacombe continues to grow and thrive. By prioritizing these essential developments, we are laying the groundwork for a prosperous future for our community.”
Key projects include:
• Fairview Cemetery expansion - $600,000
• Cranna Lake trail repair - $200,000
• ball diamond upgrades - $425,000
• new fire station - $2.25 million
• fire ladder truck replacement - $650,000
• 76th St. road upgrades - $900,000
• 2025 capital works - $2.37 million
• 2025 active transportation projects - $428,000
A complete list of projects can be found on Lacombe.ca.
Council also approved the 2025 operating budget, which includes a tax rate increase of 2.86 per cent. The increase is below council's original direction to administration of 3.2 per cent and aligns with council's commitment to keep increases at or below the Consumer Price Index (CPI), noted a release.
The total operating budget is $49.4 million, including utilities.
"The 2025 operating budget reflects our commitment to keeping tax rate increases at or below inflation while continuing to maintain the services which matter most to our residents," Creasey said.
"Council's approach to tax rate increases ensures our community can continue to grow and prosper sustainably."
The average residential utility bill for water, wastewater and solid waste will increase by about 5.6 per cent in 2025. As of December 2023, the total debt outstanding for the City of Lacombe was $22.7 million. The City's debt currently stands at 35 per cent of the limit imposed through the Municipal Government Act.
Council also approved the three-year financial plan for 2025-2027. The budget includes grant funding to partnering agencies, including:
• Lacombe and District FCSS - $103,108
• Connex Operating - $119,100
• Heritage Resources Committee (HRC) grant funding and operating program - $30,000
• Lacombe and District Historical Society - $82,500
• Lacombe Regional Tourism operating grant - $60,000
• Lacombe Days operating grant - $35,000
• Mary C. Moore Public Library - $359,841
• Lacombe Performing Arts Centre Foundation - $45,000
• Total agency grants - $834,549
Engagement for the operating budget took place during discussions at this year's trade show, the Lacombe Farmers' Market, and Coffee with Council sessions.
Council held budget workshops in October, which were available for the public to attend.
