Cypress County approves 2.5% property tax increase

By ANNA SMITH Local Journalism Initiative on May 7, 2025.

Cypress County residents will see their property taxes increase by 2.5 per cent after council approved the new on Tuesday. The higher rate takes into account inflation after administration was directed in mid-April to prepare a bylaw with rates adjusted according to changes in the Consumer Price Index.

It was explained during the council meeting that while the budget did report a surplus, that surplus was not yet allocated, and the municipality decided it was best to ensure a good financial position in years to come by keeping up with the cost of operations.

It is anticipated that while exact taxation is based on assessment, the new rate will result in a median increase of $203 a year, or $17 a month.

Coun. Blaine Brost suggested it is best to protect ratepayers from larger tax increases in years to come by making smaller increases year over year.

Also under management of annual bylaws was the Special Tax Bylaw for Dust Control, with rate information appearing on tax notices for those applicable.

Cypress to support new ag school

Prairie Rose Public Schools submitted a request for official support for the South Alberta School of Agriculture, a project in collaboration with partners to enhance agricultural education and opportunities within the region.

The request comes in two parts, both a repayable $500,000 investment for initial infrastructure creation on land that would be leased from the county on a long-term basis, and a direct contribution to assist with site services and utilities.

Council debated whether the project aligned with the county’s strategic plan, as there is no service level determined for education, and some were concerned that precedent could be set should support be approved.

Ultimately, council decided to support the project in principle, pending a draft lease agreement with an amount for repayment not exceeding $500,000 for primary infrastructure over a minimum of 25 years.

The agreement will be brought back for review and final funding decision.

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