The Stettler Regional Board of Trade is seeking a formal audience with town council over a recent decision that reallocates municipal funding to establish an economic development officer.
During its monthly meeting on April 14, the Board of Trade executive moved to request an invitation to a future council meeting.Â
A five-member sub-committee has been formed within the executive, with the goal of securing amendments to the 2026 budget, which currently outlines reductions to the board’s operating grant.
The request follows a March 3 decision by Stettler Town Council to reduce the BOT’s funding by $60,000 for the 2026 tax year, with a further reduction of $120,000 in 2027.Â
The funds are being redirected to create a dedicated Economic Development Officer position within the town.
A central point of contention is the retroactive nature of the change.Â
As the BOT’s 2026 budget had already been finalized & passed prior to the council’s March 3 decision, the executive warns that immediate service cuts may be necessary.
Prior to the reallocation, the Board of Trade had projected a 2026 budget of $542,621, with municipal support accounting for approximately $351,321 of that total.
Under the new direction from the town, the Stettler Regional Board of Trade is transitioning to a fully independent operating model.Â
The mandate would require the board to assume full responsibility for its own staffing, operational oversight & financial management.
Author: Landin Chambers
Landin Chambers is a news reporter for Hometown Media Stettler. He has a background in broadcast news, with previous roles in Prince George, Red Deer and Calgary. You may also see him as a cameraman for the Stettler Wildcats and Stettler Imperials. Have a story idea? Email: lchambers@htproductionsmedia.ca
