Approval of 2025 Municipal Budget Positions High River to Move Forward with Certainty
by Town of High River
16/12/2024
Community Council
HIGH RIVER AB – At its December 9 meeting, High River’s Town Council approved the 2025 Municipal Budget. Council also approved a 3.4% tax increase. This is a slight increase of point 1% (.1%) over 2024’s tax increase of 3.3%. Approval of the budget ensures that services and programs residents rely on will continue. It also makes sure the Town’s infrastructure remains in good repair and enables the Town to fund important projects that invest in and improve the quality of life in High River.
“A municipal budget is more than numbers. It also represents a commitment to the community,” said Mayor Craig Snodgrass. “We are confident that the 2025 Municipal Budget will enable the Town to move forward with certainty that resources and funds are in place for the provision of Town programs and services, as well as to fund important projects that will keep High River a vibrant and attractive place to live, benefitting current and future generations.”
A 3.4% tax increase means an average of $81.60 per year or $6.80 per month, per taxable property in High River based on the average assessment value of $476,000.
Council vigorously reviewed proposed spending to arrive at the final, balanced budget with an estimated total spending of:
- $31.85 million for Capital and Special Projects, and
- $34.2 million for the Operating Budget
- Click on the above links to view the final budgets online.
To keep the tax rate affordable in a challenging economic climate, the Town reduced costs across the organization. External grants and special purpose reserves will help to fund 2025 Capital and Special Projects, offsetting new taxation. Council was able to support the Bob Snodgrass Recreation Centre expansion through approval of Reserve Policy POL-0091 with no impacts on resident taxes.
Council’s Strategic Priorities, updated in October, also help guide decision making to ensure the thoughtful and wise management of the Town’s finances. The top five priorities going into 2025 are:
- Recycling and Composting Program
- Skatepark Concept Design and Engagement
- Town Farm Outdoor Rink
- 112 Street East Area Structure Plan
- Water Strategy
“Developing a sound budget each year is a critical role of Council and is done through open discussions, by listening and by caring – because we are also members of this community,” added Mayor Snodgrass. “We are all stewards of this Town’s values, growth and future opportunities. Thanks to Council and Administration for the hard work resulting in the approved budget for 2025.”
Visit the Town’s 2025 Municipal Budget webpage for more information and a complete list of 2025 Capital and Operating projects.
- 30 –
Media Inquiries
Craig Snodgrass, Mayor, Town of High River
403-652-2110 or email communications@highriver.ca
General Inquiries:
Town of High River
403-652-2110