The MD of Bonnyville has given the thumbs-up to its 2019 revised interim budget. The $116.8 million plan was passed during the MD council meeting on Wednesday. The new budget sees money earmarked for recreational upgrades, infrastructure and water distribution projects among other items the MD considers a focus.
MD Reeve Greg Sawchuk says some money had to be moved around to balance this budget.
“Council’s priority is to improve the quality of life for M.D. residents, maintain regional cooperation, build the region’s tourism potential and support our industry partners. To reach our goals, Council utilized $12 million in the form of transfers from surplus (reserve funds carried over from projects and funds remaining from previous years’ budgets) to balance the revised interim budget.”
Money will go towards paving roadways like the Wolf Lake Road as well as repairs on Lessard Bridge after it was damaged last spring. New projects this year include new fire halls in Fort Kent and Ardmore, upgrades at the Cold Lake MD park and work at the Vezeau Beach Campground and boat launch. The MD took over Vezeau Beach late last year.
The final budget is expected to be passed by council this spring after school and lodge requisitions are factored in from the provincial government.