Okotoks town council approves budget adjustments

Okotoks town council has approved changes to next year's budget.

At a Nov. 27 meeting, they finalized amendments that will affect years three and four of the four-year 2022-2025 budget.

This included a few major investments, service increases, and tax increases.

While a five per cent property tax increase was discussed, council ended up agreeing on a 4.6 per cent increase for 2024.

The increase is expected to equate to the average household in Okotoks assessed at $551,000 as an extra $10.27 a month, or $123.24 each year.

A 35 per cent natural gas franchise fee, up from 20 per cent, is also planned, though it still has to be approved by the Alberta Utilities Commission.

The average utility customer is expected to see an increase of $6.82 a month or $81.81 a year.

According to the town's website, the franchise fee increase was partly due to the desire for equity among fee increases.

"It is an opportunity to increase revenue more equitably, as nearly all customers use utilities, but not all customers pay property taxes."

A quote from Mayor Tanya Thorn from the town's website speaks to which services council felt required further investment.

"In year three of the four-year budget process, Council and Administration have identified what is on and off target and where changes are needed. Priorities lie in enhancing community safety, elevating service standards for firefighting capabilities, pedestrian infrastructure, and transit services. Additionally, securing essential funding for the water pipeline infrastructure will prepare us for growth."

Investments include $694,000 in RCMP costs over the next two years, four additional firefighters, and a two-year $500,000 transit strategy.

Council also arranged for snow and ice control services on Priority 1 roads to see an increase as well as a plan to improve older fencing along the town's "arterial and primary collector roads."

More information on the budget update can be seen on the town's website.

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