Edson’s town council recently approved the 2026 capital and operating budgets, and Edson residents are expected to see a 2.7 per cent increase to the municipal tax levy next year.
Officials note the anticipated tax increase assumes no growth in assessment, as that data isn’t yet available. On an average assessment of $350,000, this would amount to an increase of about $5 per month for the municipal portion of the levy. The town says this enables it to keep pace with inflationary costs, maintain current service levels and contribute towards reserves for future planning.
The 2026 Operating Budget was approved at $42.7 million and endeavours to balance financial capacity and constraints, council’s current and emerging priorities, external economic and regulatory pressures and feedback from residents and stakeholders.
“Our new council is committed to a budget that balances the infrastructure needs of the community, increasing demands for service, and financial sustainability,” stated Mayor Kevin Zahara. “The Town of Edson continues to face extreme inflationary pressures and infrastructure demands. We also understand the same pressures are being faced by our residents. We have worked hard to create a fair budget that addresses the needs of the town while maintaining quality levels of service and limiting increases in costs for our residents.”
Council also approved a $10,000 reduction to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities conference budget for 2026, noting that full attendance is not always required.
The 2026 Capital Budget was approved at $52.4 million, $39 million of which is related to the YCE Multiplex project. Twenty-five projects have been approved, and they’re to be funded via grants (61.7 per cent), reserves (8.3 per cent), other local governments and boards (22.5 per cent) and debentures (7.5 per cent).
The town says these projects are largely focused on infrastructure improvements and flood mitigation efforts, including sanitary sewer and road upgrades. Larger capital projects planned include the Water Degas upgrade, A6 sanitary sewer line replacement, 51 Street rehabilitation, 2 Avenue storm crossing replacement and the multiplex.
Council also revised the Fees and Charges Bylaw, including minor adjustments to fees at the Edson and District Leisure Centre starting in 2026. A five per cent increase will be applied to user fees for new bookings not under existing agreements. Officials say these increases are happening gradually to reduce the increases needed when the YCE Multiplex’s new amenities are operational.
The stormwater management charge has also been increased from $2 per month to $4 per month to help offset the cost of future stormwater management projects and maintenance.
The 2026 Capital Budget, 2026 Operating Budget and Fees and Charges Bylaw were approved by council on Nov. 18.
