As Bonnyville looks ahead to the coming year, Mayor Elisa Brosseau says council is balancing rising costs, infrastructure demands, and growth while keeping the town’s long-term health front and centre.

Like municipalities across Alberta, Bonnyville is feeling the pressure of higher operating costs.

“The cost of everything has gone up,” Brosseau said.

She explained that council must carefully weigh how and where dollars are spent to ensure essential services are maintained without losing sight of future needs.

“Infrastructure is expensive, but it’s necessary.”

Planning Ahead to Avoid Bigger Costs

Rather than reacting to issues as they arise, Brosseau said council is focused on planning ahead to avoid larger, more expensive problems down the road.

“We have to plan ahead. If you don’t, you end up paying more later.”

Roads, utilities, and public facilities all require consistent investment, and delaying maintenance often leads to higher repair costs in the future.

“It’s about maintaining what we have while preparing for the future.”

At the same time, Brosseau said council is aware of the financial strain many residents are facing.

“We know people are feeling the pressure. Council takes that seriously.”

Managing Growth and Regional Responsibilities

Brosseau said Bonnyville’s role extends beyond its municipal boundaries, serving as a hub for surrounding communities.

“Bonnyville isn’t just serving Bonnyville.”

That reality shapes how council approaches growth and development, ensuring expansion remains sustainable and aligned with available infrastructure.

“Growth is important, but it has to be sustainable.”

As the town grows, demands on services and facilities increase as well.

“When you grow, everything grows with it.”

Regional cooperation remains a key part of that approach.

“We work closely with our neighbours.”

Brosseau said partnerships help maximize resources and improve service delivery, while residents benefit from systems that work regardless of jurisdiction.

“People just want services to work.”

Community Identity Guides the Path Forward

For Brosseau, Bonnyville’s strong sense of community plays a central role in how the town navigates challenges and opportunities.

“Bonnyville has a strong sense of community.”

She pointed to local engagement, volunteerism, and pride as strengths that help guide council’s decisions.

While challenges remain, Brosseau said council remains focused on steady progress and practical solutions.

“There are always challenges, but there are also opportunities.”

Looking ahead, she said the goal is to keep Bonnyville strong, connected, and resilient.

“We want Bonnyville to be a place people are proud to call home.”

She added that decisions being made today are about setting the community up for long-term success.

“What we do now matters for the future.”