Whitecourt Town Council update
Whitecourt Town Council has approved the 2021 Budget. Valued at $51,193,613, the budget supports priorities identified by Council in the 2021 Strategic Plan and its intention to sustain service levels while at the same time planning for the future.
A 1.99% tax rate increase is required to support the budget. This is a 0.33% decrease from what was proposed in the interim budget that was adopted in December 2020.
Whitecourt Town Council has taken a conservative approach in the development of the 2021 Budget in recognition of the financial challenges faced by local residents and businesses. In addition to the $800,000 in reductions made last year, an additional $500,000 in cost efficiencies and reduced spending have been implemented in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and an unpredictable economy.
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Whitecourt council approved a $38.7 million operating budget and $12.5 million capital budget for 2021 during its regular meeting last week.
A tax rate bylaw will be presented to council May 10 with residential and non-residential rates expected to rise 1.99 per cent, instead of the 2.32 per cent increase proposed in December.
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Mayor Maryann Chichak said approximately $500,000 was shaved off this year’s budget, but the town will still see increased expenses in insurance, gas and heating, on top of COVID expenses.