Strathcona County's 2026 Budget: Proactive plans for Growth and Sustainability

As we look ahead to 2026, Strathcona County is taking proactive steps to ensure our community continues to thrive while managing growth and maintaining high-quality services. I'm excited to see the County's strategic approach to balancing future investments with fiscal responsibility. As someone who is deeply involved in our community, I'd like to share my thoughts on what's coming and what it means for all of us.

Key Infrastructure Projects- Building for the Future

Strathcona County is focused on creating spaces that will serve us for years to come. Among the exciting projects in the 2026 budget, I'm especially thrilled about:

A New Multi-Use Indoor Fieldhouse: This $65 million facility is set to begin construction in 2026. It's more than just a sports facility- It's a community hub where families can come together, stay active, and create memories. Our community has long needed this, and it's fantastic to see it finally take shape.

Sherwood Park Arena Upgrades: With $12 million allocated to modernizing the Sherwood Park Arena, it's clear that the Strathcona County is committed to making sure our recreation spaces keep up with the needs of our growing community. While this project is set to begin in 2027, the planning stage is already underway, and I look forward to seeing how it evolves.

Station 7 Fire Hall: This new fire hall, with a budget of $27 million, is essential for ensuring our emergency services can keep up with growth in the region. It's set to start in 2027, and having this infrastructure in place is vital for keeping our community safe.

Financial Strategy- Managing Growth Responsibly

Of course, funding these projects doesn't come without tough decisions. That is why Strathcona County has implemented a recreation and culture levy, which started in 2024 and will run through 2026. This means a modest 6% tax increase over three years, which will directly contribute to the cost of the indoor fieldhouse. It's a long-term investment that will benefit all of us, and I believe it's the right step for ensuring that we build the facilities our community needs.

In addition, the 2025 budget has approved a 3.90% property tax revenue increase, which includes the second year of the levy. This increase will help fund essential services like snow clearing, emergency response, and utility maintenance-things that might not be exciting to think about but are absolutely crucial to maintaining our quality of life.

Why This Matters to Us

As someone who works closely with our community, I'm keenly aware of how important these investments are. Our county is growing, and with that comes the need for better infrastructure, more recreational opportunities, and continued excellence in public services. The 2026 budget is about setting a solid foundation for that future.

But it's not just about what's being done-It's about how we are all involved. Strathcona County's commitment to engaging the community in the budgeting process is something I truly appreciate. Public hearings and budget meetings give all of us a chance to voice our opinions and ask questions. It's a transparent and collaborative process that helps ensure the budget reflects the priorities of everyone in the community.

Get Involved and Share Your Thoughts

I encourage you to participate in these budget discussions and stay informed about where your tax dollars are going. Whether your passionate about recreation, public safety, or any other issue, your voice matters. As the county moves forward with these exciting projects and plans, let's make sure were working together to build the best future for Strathcona County.

If you have questions, thoughts, or concerns about the 2026 budget or any of the projects on the horizon, don't hesitate to reach out. Together, we can continue making Strathcona County the best place to work, live and raise a family.