Red Deer council unanimously approves 2027 utilities budget
The budget funds electricity, water, wastewater and waste management systems but does not set rates, which council will consider separately this fall.
Red Deer city council unanimously approved the 2027 utilities budget at Tuesday's regular meeting, setting the funding needed to operate, maintain and invest in the city's utility systems, including electricity distribution, water treatment and distribution, wastewater collection and treatment, and waste management.
The approved funding supports infrastructure including 650 kilometres of water distribution lines, 520 kilometres of wastewater infrastructure, and 1,000 kilometres of electric infrastructure. Key priorities include maintaining reliable service, renewing aging infrastructure, advancing modernization efforts, and preparing systems for future growth and regulatory changes.
Mayor Cindy Jefferies said utility services are fundamental to residents' and businesses' quality of life, and that council's decision reflects the importance of maintaining infrastructure today to ensure reliable service in the future. Chief Financial Officer Sam Mugford said the budget reflects a focus on reliability, sustainability and responsible infrastructure stewardship.
The city noted this approval does not set utility rates; administration will bring recommended rates to council through a utility rate bylaw later this fall. Next in the 2027 budget process is the capital budget, up for debate Oct. 13, followed by the operating budget, open for public review Nov. 5 and debated Nov. 23-27.
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