Budget information and process

Each year, Town Council approves an annual budget that details the revenue required to provide essential services, programs and initiatives to residents.

Our budget covers all the essential services that residents use each and every day. Whether you’re diving into the Aquatic Centre, borrowing a book from the Strathmore Municipal Library,  having your garbage or compost picked up, drinking clean water from the tap, riding the Handibus on a road, or having emergency services rush to your aid—you’re using a Town of Strathmore service. 

Decision making is guided through Council discussions, information provided by Administration, and a series of engagement opportunities where residents and local groups or stakeholders may present or ask questions at special budget meetings. 

The Town's corporate and strategic priorities and vision help to guide Council as they prepare both annual and long term budgets. 

Strathmore’s total budget relies on many revenue sources in addition to property taxes. While we often focus  on the property tax portion, it’s only 42% of budget funding. There are many other sources including grants, reserves, franchise fees, investment returns, user fees and more.

The budget process

The Municipal Government Act states that a Municipal Council is to pass a budget for each year. Our budget process starts with resident and business feedback throughout the year, especially through our Citizen Satisfaction Survey.

Fall workshops are used to further develop operational and capital project plans. Council provides direction and priorities to Administration for the financial planning. A three year Capital and Operating Financial Plan is presented to Council. From this financial plan a one year budget is adopted and approved by Council.