MEDIA RELEASE
April 1, 2022
Athabasca – Following budget deliberations that began in December 2021, Athabasca County Council approved a three-year operating budget and five-year financial capital plan at the March 31, 2022, Regular Council meeting.
The 2022 operating and capital budgets are based on tax revenues of $22,720,047, with operating and capital expenses of $29,900,676, including $3.3 million for bridge rehabilitation, $2.3 million for road construction, a 30% increase in fuel costs, and a $4 million waste management project carried over from the prior year funded through a draw on reserves. Using sales revenue from departments and $533,000 from efficiency initiatives to offset the costs, the balanced budget includes reserve funding for snow clearing, energy efficiency initiatives, and fire department capital purchases.
Also highlighted in the 2022 budget is a 3% cost of living allowance for County employees, which has not been applied in recent years. A new financial reporting system will be implemented as well as upgrades to the phone system and information technology. Council also approved an additional community peace officer position and new road equipment.
“This budget is based on thorough discussions about priorities in the region,” said Reeve Brian Hall. “We are proceeding with important capital projects and enhancing operations that matter to residents, such as road maintenance and emergency services,” he added. “While undoubtedly many decisions were difficult, Council believes the budget approved today takes a long-term view for the financial health of the County and improves the equity of taxes paid across properties.”
New in 2022, a dedicated fire and emergency services reserve has been established to proactively budget on an annual basis for ongoing equipment renewal and replacement. “We value our volunteers, and this reserve demonstrates a commitment to ensuring they have the equipment necessary.” A further $35,000 has been allocated for communications equipment upgrades across the fire departments.
The difficult decision to implement a minimum tax on all parcels takes effect with the 2022 tax year. This means that all properties, regardless of the property type or size, will pay a minimum of $250. Council and administration noted considerable inequity across properties of similar values across the municipality; this change is a step towards equity in taxation. Council believes it is reasonable that all parcels contribute a reasonable amount to the sustainability of the County.
Section 357 of the Municipal Government Act allows municipalities to impose a minimum tax. Of the 180± municipalities that have applied s. 357 of the Act as part of their taxation practices, the average minimum tax payable is $445 and ranges as high as $1,375.
“This budget and our multi-year plan to replace equipment will ensure that the County continues to provide a high level of service citizens have come to expect and deserve.”
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Media inquiries may be directed to:
Ms. Dawn Phillips, Interim Chief Administrative Officer
Email: cao@athabascacounty.com
