The City of Prince Albert’s Budget Committee will convene on November 19, 2025, to begin formal deliberations on the proposed 2026 capital and operating budgets, setting the financial course for the year ahead. The multi-day sessions will determine funding priorities for key city services, from policing and recreation to transit, fire, and road maintenance.
City administration has presented a comprehensive financial package outlining both the operating framework and capital investments required to sustain core municipal functions. The proposed 2026 budget will be reviewed, amended as necessary, and ultimately recommended to City Council for final approval later this year.
The total budget increase funded through property taxes is projected at $4.42 million, representing the amount needed to balance the 2026 financial plan. According to administration, all items referred to the Budget Committee throughout 2025 — along with new departmental requests — are included in the proposal.
“City’s administration has undertaken a comprehensive and diligent review of all departmental budgets to present a streamlined financial plan that reflects both fiscal responsibility and community priorities,” said Ramona Fauchoux, Director of Financial Services.
The 2026 budget builds on the city’s commitment to balance responsible fiscal management with the delivery of essential services.
“This year’s budget reflects Council’s commitment to being fiscally responsible while continuing to provide the essential services our residents rely on every day,” said Sherry Person, City Manager. “We recognize the financial challenges facing households due to sustained inflation in recent years, and we have worked diligently to minimize the impact on residents while ensuring the City remains on a stable and sustainable financial path.”
Major cost drivers and capital priorities
The proposed budget highlights several major expenditures that will shape next year’s financial plan, including infrastructure, staffing, and community facilities. Among the most significant cost drivers are:
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$1 million for the 6th Avenue Viaduct Bridge Rehabilitation, one of the city’s key transportation infrastructure projects.
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$524,300 to operate the Lake Country Co-op Leisure Centre, which incorporates savings achieved through the consolidation of operations at the Frank Dunn and Dave Steuart Arenas.
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$2.55 million to fund salaries, wages, and benefits across city departments.
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$890,000 to support the Prince Albert Police Service, reflecting both inflationary pressures and operational growth.
To manage these rising costs, administration has proposed $2.1 million in spending cuts across all departments, following an internal review aimed at identifying efficiencies without compromising service delivery.
Streamlined and transparent process
In a continued effort to improve accessibility and transparency, the 2026 budget has been prepared entirely in digital format, allowing residents and council members to explore budget data through interactive charts, tables, and graphs.
The General Fund Budget Committee meetings are scheduled as follows:
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Wednesday, November 19, 2025 – 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
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Thursday, November 20, 2025 – 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
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Friday, November 21, 2025 – 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
All sessions will be held in the Council Chamber at City Hall and live-streamed via the city’s website at www.citypa.ca/council-meeting. Members of the public are encouraged to observe proceedings online or in person; however, public presentations will not be heard during these meetings. City officials note that residents interested in following deliberations are encouraged to attend the first day, as discussions may conclude earlier than scheduled.
Additional deliberations for utilities and land funds
Following general budget discussions, the Sanitation, Utility, Airport, and Land Fund budgets will be considered in early December. These meetings are also open for public observation and will take place on:
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Wednesday, December 3, 2025 – 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
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Thursday, December 4, 2025 – 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
As with the general sessions, these deliberations will be held in Council Chambers and streamed live on the city’s website.
Balancing fiscal discipline and community priorities
The 2026 budget process comes amid continued economic uncertainty and rising operating costs, driven by inflation and infrastructure needs. The city has emphasized maintaining service levels in key areas such as recreation, transportation, and emergency services while ensuring long-term financial sustainability.
Officials stress that the budget currently presented represents a preliminary estimate, which may change as deliberations progress.
City Council will review the committee’s recommendations, consider public priorities, and finalize the 2026 property tax rate once discussions conclude.
The 2026 budget, which can be accessed online, will ultimately guide Prince Albert’s investments in both essential services and strategic projects that underpin the city’s long-term growth and stability.