2010 municipal budget approved
December 15, 2009
2010 municipal budget approved; no increase in municipal taxes
Strathcona County Council today approved a budget for 2010 that will maintain municipal services without increasing taxes.
"Holding the line on taxes in this coming year will give our residents and businesses some certainty during a time of widespread uncertainty," says Mayor Cathy Olesen. "We know the economy is affecting many people in our community. Doing this has required us to make some adjustments, but we're confident they are well-founded."
In order to achieve a zero-per-cent tax increase, the County has had to make several adjustments including a reduction in the contribution to reserves for future vehicle replacements, and using anticipated surplus funds from 2009 for some one-time capital projects.
Next year will see the opening of the County's new Community Centre and Library, construction of which is proceeding on schedule and on budget. The County will continue with the planned improvements and new facilities identified in the Open Spaces and Recreation Facilities strategy.
As part of the 2010 capital budget, a new fire and emergency services station will be built on Bison Way near the RCMP station.
User fees for water, wastewater, storm sewer and solid waste will increase by $4.73 (4.75 per cent) per month for the average residential customer in Sherwood Park. For individual properties, the actual tax bill will also reflect tax rates for education as determined by the Province.
Council will give final approval to tax rates in May 2010.
Contact: Mayor Cathy Olesen, 780-464-8000
Quick facts
- Municipal operating costs for 2009 and 2010 amount to $1,655 for the average single family home.
- Residential taxes pay for about 28 per cent of the County's municipal operations.
- Of every property tax dollar, 61 per cent pays for municipal services, 36 per cent is collected on behalf of the Province for education, and 3 per cent supports the Library and seniors' housing through Pioneer Housing Foundation.
- The cost to deliver municipal services in 2010 is $1,708 per household.
Last updated: Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Page ID: 3705