Cypress County council approved the 2026 budget on Tuesday, electing to take that immediate responsibility off the plate of the next council.--NEWS PHOTO ANNA SMITH
asmith@medicinehatnews.com
Cypress County council approved the 2026 budget at its regular meeting Tuesday, setting the stage for the new council ahead of the election.
The new budget reported increased income, reaching $51.9 million through a higher tax base. Because of this, council chose to set aside $8.6 million into reserves, to be used when needed for capital projects and other uses.
“The 2026 Budget continues to invest in the priorities that matter most to our residents: safe and reliable infrastructure, sustainable growth and strong, vibrant communities,” said Reeve Dan Hamilton in a statement. “We recognize the importance of balancing these priorities with prudent financial management to keep Cypress County affordable for families, farmers, and businesses alike.”
During the meeting, council debated whether to pass the budget, weighing the merits of having something in place for the new council beforehand, or to allow those incoming to set something according to their own goals.
“I’m happy we did the legwork on it. I’m happy it’s here and presented, but I don’t think this should be approved until after the election,” said Coun. Dustin Vossler. “If there are new people sitting in this room, they should have every right to make that budget for the future council for the next four years. I don’t believe it’s our job to handcuff them for a year into a budget that we’ve made.”
“There is so much that comes with this job and to get thrown into approving a budget the first month, I just totally disagree with that,” said Deputy Reeve Richard Oster. “I think you have a bunch of experienced people here; we asked a lot of the right questions and I think as the existing council, it’s our job to make this county move forward. This budget is a big part of that, by discussing it and hopefully approving it.”
Ultimately, the motion passed, with the new 2026 budget approved.
Several key projects highlighted in $43.6 million of expenses, including upgrades to the Irvine Sportsplex, increased investment in economic development and more than $1 million in community program funding, which the county said show their commitment to immediate community needs and future growth.
Residents will continue to see consistent tax rates, with the county acknowledging challenging economic times and assuring that they will work hard to keep overall rates remain the 20th percentile among Alberta municipalities.
