Leduc County council approves 2021 budget, sets tax rates

Leduc County council approved the final 2021 budget and set the 2021 tax rates at its regular council meeting yesterday afternoon.

This budget results in a 3.5 per cent tax-dollar budget decrease. 

Council approved an $84.2 million operating budget, which covers day-to-day municipal operating expenses and includes $26.7 million collected on behalf of the Government of Alberta and the Leduc Regional Housing Foundation for school, designated industrial property and seniors' housing requisitions.

They also approved a $15.6 million capital budget, which includes infrastructure costs for buildings, roads, bridges, and equipment.

This budget shows our continued commitment to supporting our residents and businesses. A 3.5 per cent tax-dollar budget decrease means more than 80 per cent of property owners will see a decrease in property taxes for 2021. It has been a tough year, and we know that many residents and businesses are still feeling the effects of the pandemic and its negative impact on our economy. We hope this helps to ease the financial burden they face.

Mayor Tanni Doblanko

2021 budget highlights

• $16.6 million for road projects and maintenance

• $1.03 million for bridge projects

• $2.16 million in cost-share recreation support to six partner municipalities

  • $1.66 million for capital and operating support
  • $500,000 to the Beaumont Sport and Recreation Centre expansion ($2.4 million over five years)​

• $263,450 for support to not-for-profit facilities and community recreation and cultural grants

• $148,000 for support to six libraries

• $1.8 million for wastewater projects

2021 tax rates

The 3.5 per cent tax-dollar budget decrease results in a tax reduction for most property owners. Approximately 81 per cent of property owners can expect a property tax decrease, while seven per cent will see no change. Twelve per cent of property owners will see an increase over 2020 due to an assessment value increase.

Property taxes are comprised of municipal property taxes and requisitions. Each year, Leduc County collects tax dollars on behalf of the Government of Alberta and the Leduc Regional Housing Foundation. Leduc County has no control over this amount and is obligated to collect taxes on behalf of the these organizations.

Property tax notices will be mailed to residents on May 12. Taxes are due by June 30, 2021.