The City of Lethbridge’s community issues committee has drafted its proposed budget for 2027 a day ahead of schedule. If it’s approved, the municipal side of the property tax will see less of an increase than originally thought. Mayor Blaine Hyggen feels confident a strong budget has been put together. “I do want to take a moment to commend our city administration for proposing more than 40 budget reduction items to help keep future costs under control. We were telling administration we wanted to focus on needs and not wants in this budget,” Hyggen said. Municipal property taxes in 2027 would increase 2.67 per cent instead of the original 3.53 per cent. It would also come in lower than this year’s 5.1 per cent increase. Residents might notice some service changes and changes with city-owned facilities. Notably, transit to the University of Lethbridge would be reduced in the summer, and free waste drop-off on Saturdays would be cut. Prices on top-selling items at VisitLethbridge.com Arena would also increase 25 cents. “When you’re doing a reduction, obviously you’re removing some service or something in the community. And so, they’re not easy. But we’re just listening to the community,” said Hyggen. It won’t be long before the city begins work on its 2028-2031 operating budget. Hyggen believes this stub budget sets up the city well for that process. “That exercise has been out there to find cost savings within the different departments that the city manager has put out. So, I think that measure will continue going forward.” The proposed budget will be voted on at the June 23 city council meeting.
