The M.D. of Bonnyville approved its 2025 Interim Operating Budget and 2026 Capital Budget, after four days of deliberations at the beginning of November.
Council adopted both budgets at its November 25 regular meeting. The 2026 Capital Budget is set at $132,910,232, allowing the M.D. to continue day to day operations into the new year. Adjustments will follow in the spring when final numbers, like provincial education and seniors’ housing requisitions, industrial assessment changes and new growth are confirmed.
A projected $8.7 million deficit will be covered through the Unrestricted Surplus. Required by the Municipal Government Act, the final budget must be approved by the end of April 2026.
Council also approved the 2026 Capital Budget at $25,301,000, fully funded through grants, reserves, and taxes. The capital plan may change in the coming weeks, a special council meeting is set for December 10 to hold a workshop on bridge infrastructure, after a 2023 State of Infrastructure report that found $90 million in bridge repairs and replacements needed over 10 years.
“Its important we look at the bridges in our community,” said Reeve Barry Kalinski. “With rivers and creeks running through the M.D., we have a lot of bridges and culverts that require maintenance.”
Key highlights from the 2026 Capital budget includes, $60,000 for the first phase of a boat mooring system at Kinosoo Ridge Resort on top of a previously approved $140,000. $158,000 for upgrades to the Fort Kent Recreation Park, $250,000 for a wildland firefighting unit for the Bonnyville Regional Fire Authority, and $1.18 million for community grants, scholarships, and donations through the Community Association Operating and Action Grant programs.
Reeve Kalinski praised both staff and the newly elected council for their work. “There was only a couple of weeks between the election and the budget meeting, and council did a great job, ensuring we are being fiscally responsible while still providing the services our residents expect,” he said.
