Council approves 2026 Budget

Following five days of deliberations, Council has approved a $661 million Municipal Budget for the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo - balancing fiscal responsibility and operational stability with investments in growth and innovation.

The budget is comprised of $518.6 million for operations and $142.5 million to be transferred to reserves, primarily for capital purposes. The capital budget is $134.4 million with funding from grants and 2026 revenues.

“Our permanent population is growing with more people than ever calling this place home,” says Mayor Sandy Bowman. “This year’s budget balances important investments in our people, enables the community’s success for today and tomorrow, and demonstrates our collective values. Thank you to my Council colleagues for their teamwork and commitment and to Administration for its dedicated efforts in preparing the 2026 budget.”

2026 Municipal Budget Highlights

The 2026 Municipal Budget’s theme building a legacy rooted in sustainability through meaningful connections and strengthened partnerships prioritizes long-term value by investing in initiatives that deliver lasting impacts, supports community engagement and collaboration, and advances strategic partnerships.

The 2026 Operating Budget supports program and service delivery and strengthens partnerships with local non-profits. Highlights include:

• $47.1 million in direct community support for local non-profit organizations, including municipal facility operators. 
• $55.1 million for fire and ambulance services.
• $18.4 million for parks and outdoor recreation spaces.  
• $48.9 million for environmental services, including underground services, water, wastewater and landfill services.
• $59.6 million for police support and bylaw services.
• $24.1 million for roads.

The 2026 Capital Budget focuses on advancing and completing existing multi-year initiatives and long-term, community-centered investments. As part of the budget deliberations, Administration reviewed all capital projects and made recommendations for Council’s consideration. Council approved the cancellation of five projects, which released $5,932,017 back to the Capital Infrastructure Reserve (CIR).  Additionally, $25,864,860 was approved to be transferred to the Land Acquisition Reserve and one project was approved for defunding, resulting in $47,341 being restricted within the CIR.

Notable capital projects include:

• Janvier Fire Hall Design
• Various Playgrounds and Splash Parks
• Flood Mitigation Construction
• Janvier Community Space Design
• Rural Water and Sewer Servicing Construction and Service Connections

“I want to recognize Council for completing this year’s budget process and approving a plan that supports community priorities,” said ICAO Butz. “I also thank municipal staff for the planning and analysis that provided Council with the information needed to make informed decisions.”

2026 Interim Budget

At its Dec. 9 meeting, Council approved a $149 million 2026 Interim Municipal Budget to fund municipal services for the first quarter of 2026. The full 2026 Municipal Budget approved by Council replaces that interim budget.

Learn more about the 2026 Budget by accessing information and resources on the Municipal website at rmwb.ca/budget.

Recordings of all budget sessions are available on the Municipality’s YouTube channel.

For questions or further details, residents can contact Pulse at 780‑743‑7000, toll‑free at 1‑800‑973‑9663, or online at rmwb.ca/pulse.

Quotes

"This budget is the result of countless hours of diligent collaboration with my fellow Councillors long before the official meetings began. I am proud of the work we’ve accomplished together, and I hope our citizens feel that same pride in the responsible path we’ve set for the Region," said Councillor Ty Brandt.

"This budget process was the best I've ever been involved in. Everyone was very engaged, and I appreciate everyone's efforts in the 2026 budget process," said Councillor Lance Bussieres.

"I have been on the other side before, and did not fully appreciate how much work goes into the budget. Being part of it now has given me a whole new respect for the time and care staff put in. Yes, we approved a higher spend, but we also laid a strong foundation for success. Public safety remains our top priority, along with delivering exceptional service to residents and making sure our staff are supported to do their jobs well," said Councillor Luana Bussieres.

"This budget reflects careful planning and disciplined choices. It is strategic in its priorities, responsible in its spending, and focused on delivering reliable services residents count on. We balanced today’s needs with tomorrow’s realities, ensuring sustainable growth while protecting taxpayers and strengthening our community," said Councillor Don Scott.

"As Council’s first budget together, our priority was setting Administration up for success by ensuring they have the people, tools, and resources needed to maintain the high level of service residents expect. At the same time, we passed motions to strengthen accountability and put checks in place so we can continuously evaluate whether we are on the right path," said Councillor Jennifer Vardy.

"I believe this budget, along with the overall process, was thorough and complete. We have set the region up for success in 2026 and addressed key deficiencies in several departments. I am most excited to see a long overdue Community Centre commitment for Janvier. Thank you to administration, along with all the community members who came to speak and contribute to the process," said Councillor Kyle Vandecasteyen.

-30-