Rocky View County Council has solidified its 2024 Operating and Capital Budget, marking a 0 per cent tax increase. This decision reflects the council's acute awareness of prevailing economic conditions and a commitment to easing financial burdens on residents.

Reeve Crystal Kissel emphasized the council's empathetic stance, stating,

"We recognize the economic pressures our residents are facing within their own personal budgets. With that in mind, we have the opportunity this year to lessen that financial strain by approving a budget without a tax increase, underlining our commitment to ensuring the prosperity and wellbeing of our community."

The budget planning process foresaw an increase in tax revenue based on anticipated County growth. However, the actual growth, primarily driven by new developments, exceeded initial projections by over eightfold, resulting in an additional $9,206,900 in tax revenue. Notably, the surge in new construction, particularly in the non-residential sector, spurred this unexpected growth.

The 2024 budget prioritizes addressing infrastructural and service demands stemming from a burgeoning community. Key adjustments approved by Council include funding for strategic investments aimed at enhancing service levels across departments, a modest 3% utility rate increase for water and wastewater services, and a $6,552,800 budget adjustment transferred to the Tax Stabilization Reserve for future service delivery enhancements and project funding.

Following the budget approval on April 9, Council's next step involves reviewing and approving the Annual Tax Rate Bylaw. This bylaw determines the property tax revenue required to fund County services based on property assessments. 

Residents can visit the County website for information regarding their assessment and tax bill. 

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