The Town of Peace River has approved its 2026 municipal budget, with a focus of balancing fiscal responsibility while maintaining services and investing in key priorities.
Mayor Shelly Shannon said the plan balances cost control with efforts to promote the community and support local business, while CAO Barbara Miller noted it reflects disciplined financial management.
The budget includes a 2.5% municipal tax increase, in the similar increase range over the past three years. Water and wastewater rates will rise by an average of 5%, while solid waste fees will drop by 9% thanks to the recent shift to provincially funded recycling which saves about $30 per household annually.
The Town expects to reach reserves of $12.5 million for the tax-supported budget and $5.9 million for utilities by the end of 2026. These figures provide the flexibility to manage unexpected costs; such as this winter’s higher snow removal expenses, while supporting long-term planning and replacement.
2026 Budget Highlights…
Budget Details:
~Municipal Tax Increase: 2.5%
~Water Rates: 5% increase on average
~Wastewater Rates: 5% increase on average
~Solid Waste Rates: 9% decrease
~Tax Supported Budget: $29,705,026
~Utility Supported Budget: $8,923,800
Major 2026 Funded Projects:
~Peace Regional Pool: $850,000 for facility upgrades, including the slide and mezzanine
~Wayfinding Plan: $200,000 for continuation of the signage project
~New Engine for Fire Department: $600,000
~Sidewalk by Glenmary: $250,000
~2026 Paving and Overlay: $1.3 million
Major Projects Continuing From 2025:
~Town Hall Renovations: $1.25 million
~Pats Creek Instrumentation and Dam Control: $906,400
~101 Street Reconstruction: $1.1 million
~90 Street Stormwater and Culvert Repair: $670,000
~Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrades: $3 million
Keith Hopper, Trending 55
