M.D. adopts 2026 interim budget, sets sights on major infrastructure needs

The Municipal District of Bonnyville has approved its 2026 Interim Operating Budget and 2026 Capital Budget, setting the stage for another year of services, upgrades and long-term planning across the region.

Operating budget approved at $132.9 million

Following four days of deliberations, Council adopted the interim operating budget at $132,910,323 during its November 25 meeting. The budget maintains day-to-day operations while allowing flexibility for adjustments in the spring, once provincial requisitions, assessment changes and growth figures are finalized.

The budget includes a projected deficit of $8,776,402, which will be covered by the M.D.’s Unrestricted Surplus. As required by the Municipal Government Act, the final operating budget must be approved before April 30, 2026.

Capital budget sits at $25.3 million

Council also approved the 2026 Capital Budget, totalling $25,301,000. The capital plan is currently fully funded through a mix of grants, reserves and taxes, though adjustments may come later in the year.

A key focus area is the M.D.’s aging bridge infrastructure. A State of the Infrastructure report in 2023 identified nearly $90 million in bridge repair and replacement needs over the next decade.

A special meeting is set for December 10, 2025, where Council will review bridge replacement priorities, timelines and cost projections.

“It’s important we look at the bridges in our community,” said Reeve Barry Kalinski. “With rivers and creeks running through the M.D., we have a lot of bridges and culverts that require maintenance.”

Budget highlights

Key projects included in the 2026 Capital Budget are:
▪️ Boat mooring system – Kinosoo Ridge Resort: $60,000 (first phase), on top of an already approved $140,000
▪️ Fort Kent Recreation Park upgrades: $158,000
▪️ Wildland firefighting unit – Bonnyville Regional Fire Authority: $250,000
▪️ Community Association Operating & Action Grants: $1.18 million in grants, scholarships and donations

Council’s early workload

This budget cycle came quickly on the heels of the municipal election, making the turnaround tight for the new Council.

“I’m proud of the work staff put into this budget and the hard work of our new Council,” said Kalinski. “There was only a couple of weeks between the election and the budget meeting, and Council did a great job, ensuring we are being fiscally responsible while still providing the services our residents expect.”

The budgets now guide the M.D.’s work into the new year while the final pieces are shaped before spring.