A long-anticipated swimming pool project in Bonnyville has been pushed back to 2028, as council finalized its 2026 budget and approved a series of financial decisions, including a tax increase and updated borrowing rules.

The pool, once estimated at roughly $51 million, has been reworked into a more financially achievable project, with administration indicating the revised plan is significantly lower in cost and more realistic for the Town to fund over the next few years. Council was told the delay will allow time to build a stronger financial plan and avoid taking on excessive debt.

The decision came as part of council’s approval of the Town’s $23.6 million capital budget, which outlines major infrastructure and planning priorities for 2026. Along with the pool deferral, the capital plan includes design work for a new recreation park and library, as well as other infrastructure projects funded through reserves, grants and debentures.

2% tax increase approved

Alongside the capital budget, council approved the 2026 operating budget, which totals just under $36 million and includes a two per cent municipal tax increase for residential properties.

Administration noted that while the overall increase is set at two per cent, the actual impact on homeowners will vary depending on property assessments. In some cases, the increase could be closer to half a per cent, while others may see higher or lower changes depending on valuation shifts.

Council also passed the 2026 tax rate bylaw, formally setting:

• A 2% increase to residential municipal taxes
• A non-residential tax rate set at 1.7 times the residential rate

Overall, the changes result in a modest increase for residential properties and a more significant rise for non-residential properties, while some multi-family properties may see decreases due to assessment changes.

Borrowing bylaw updated

Council also approved amendments to its temporary borrowing bylaw, clarifying interest limits for municipal financing tools.

The updated bylaw sets:

• A maximum interest rate of 10% on the Town’s line of credit
• A maximum of 20% on credit card balances

Administration told council the Town has never used its line of credit and has not incurred interest on its credit card, but the changes were required by its financial institution.

Unpaid taxes written off

In a smaller financial item, council approved writing off $1,387.94 in unpaid taxes tied to two mobile homes that were removed from a local manufactured home park.

Administration said the units were moved without notice and no forwarding address is available for the owners. While the taxes are being written off, liens remain in place should the assets resurface in the future.

Council also discussed the need for improved tracking processes to prevent similar situations going forward.