Town of Stettler residents will see a modest rise in municipal taxes this year.
Stettler town council approved its 2026 operating tax bylaw in a 6-1 vote during the May 5 meeting, finalizing a $23,949,708 operating budget.
This confirms a 2 percent increase to municipal taxes for both residential & non-residential properties.
Administration explained the tax levy will generate about 43% of the revenue required to run the town, while the remainder will be funded through user fees, as well as provincial & federal grants.
The most significant increase to the budget this year is a 30 percent spike in the mandated payments towards senior lodges, which has jumped from $373,484 last year to $535,708 in 2026.
Additionally, the Alberta School Foundation Fund contributions have risen by eight per cent, requiring the Town to collect $2,891,948 for education.
The final figure marks an increase from the $22.25-million interim budget approved in December.
Coun. Sharon Fischer was the lone vote against, citing a campaign opposing tax increases.
Council Debate On Economic Concerns
The approval process highlighted a tension between maintaining services & taxpayer fatigue.
Coun. Cheryl Barros urged administration to keep the “struggling” taxpayer in mind during upcoming CUPE wage negotiations, noting that many in the community have faced job losses & stagnant wages in recent years.
Coun. Kurt Baker emphasized the need to “grow the tax base” to alleviate the individual burden on residents, while Coun. Scott Pfeiffer noted that rising property assessments have also played a role in the tax landscape.
2026 Utility Rates
As part of the operating budget process, utility fees for 2026 are also determined, which were approved following the interim operating budget in December.
Water Rate – $0.1000m3 Increase ($3.3454/m3 monthly cost)
Sewer Rate – $0.50 Increase ($25.75 monthly cost to residents)
Garbage Rate – $0.50 Increase ($27.00 monthly cost to residents)
Recycling Rate – $0.50 Increase ($9.50 monthly cost to residents)
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
