Ward 2 Families Cannot Afford a 6.63% Tax Hike-We need Fiscal Discipline Now

Families in Ward 2 are feeling the pressures of higher grocery bills, rising housing costs, and climbing interest rates. Now, they are confronted with news that Strathcona County is projecting a 6.63% property tax increase in 2026, a number that is simply too high for residents who are already stretched to their limits. This increase is not acceptable and highlights the urgent need for common-sense leadership focused on fiscal responsibility.

Responsible Increases: Needs Before Wants

Like every household, municipalities face inflation and rising costs. However, this does not justify asking residents to pay more than they can afford. Any increase must be responsible, measured, and tied directly to core services, not to ambitious new projects that can wait. Every dollar in Ward 2’s budget should deliver tangible value to residents. The essential question for every expenditure should be simple: Is this a need or a want?

Too often, costly projects are treated as emergencies, even when they could be delayed. The 2026 proposed budget includes projects like the new indoor fieldhouse, Station 7 firehall, and The Pointe Agricultural Event Centre. Fire protection is essential; other big projects can wait, especially when most of the tax hike is driven by these non-essential plans. In fact, more than four percentage points of the 6.63% increase come from these extras.

Residents’ Priorities: Fix Roads, Support Seniors, Keep Taxes Affordable

Conversations across Ward 2 reveal what really matters to residents: fixing roads when needed, reducing traffic congestion, supporting seniors, and keeping property taxes reasonable. Residents are not asking for a stack of multi-million dollar new facilities while household budgets are squeezed.

Every dollar spent on “extras” takes away from pressing needs. When budgets are stretched, roads deteriorate, utilities are stressed, and public safety is put at risk. This is unsustainable and not responsible governance.

Priority-Based Budgeting: The Smarter Path

Strathcona County can and should lead by example. Priority-Based Budgeting (PBB) is the practical solution. Instead of assuming this year’s budget should roll forward plus new projects, PBB forces council to ask the tough questions:

• Is this program essential?

• Does it benefit most residents?

• Does it align with council priorities?

• Can it be delivered efficiently?

PBB uncovers inefficiencies and shines a light on habitual spending that drains taxpayer dollars. It’s not about cutting services, but about transparent, measured decisions that put value first and keep taxes affordable.

Protecting Ward 2 Residents

Before the 2026 budget is finalized, council must review all spending, identify efficiencies, and prioritize what the community truly needs. Ward 2 deserves leadership that understands resources are finite—leadership that funds the essentials first, delays the rest, and ensures every tax dollar delivers real value for residents.