The M.D. of Bonnyville has finalized key pieces of its 2026 financial plan, approving budget adjustments and advancing multiple taxation bylaws during a recent council meeting.

Budget finalized with cuts and project cancellations

Council approved the final version of the 2026–2028 Operating Budget and 2026–2030 Capital Plan following a series of last-minute adjustments from administration.

The changes included:

• A reduction of $430,835 in operating expenses
• The cancellation of two capital projects totaling $300,000

These amendments were presented as part of a consolidated effort to finalize the municipality’s financial plans for the coming years.

With the vote, council officially locked in both the operating and capital budgets.

New tax installment plan approved

Council also passed second and third readings of a new Tax Installment Payment Plan Bylaw (Bylaw No. 1929), replacing the existing system.

The updated bylaw is intended to improve clarity and flexibility for taxpayers.

Key changes include:

• Clearer calculation processes
• The ability to use estimated amounts when needed
• Extended timelines for applications

The goal is to make the program easier to understand and more accessible for residents who choose to pay their taxes in installments.

Local improvement tax changes move forward

Council gave second and third readings to an amendment to the Local Improvement Tax Bylaw (Bylaw No. 1931).

While discussion on this item was limited, the amendment represents another step in updating how the municipality manages and applies specific tax tools tied to infrastructure improvements.

Tax rate bylaw highlights growth in assessment base

Administration also presented the 2026 Tax Rate Bylaw (Bylaw No. 1932), offering an early look at how growth in the assessment base is shaping municipal revenues.

According to the presentation:

• Linear assessment growth is expected to contribute approximately $4.9 million
• Machinery and equipment assessment is projected to add another $2.98 million

Together, those categories represent a significant portion of the municipality’s tax base and play a key role in overall revenue generation.

Setting the stage for the 2026 tax year

With budget approvals in place and tax bylaws advancing, the municipality is now positioned to move into the 2026 tax cycle.

The combination of spending adjustments, updated policies, and assessment growth will ultimately shape what residents and businesses see on their tax notices in the year ahead.