Budget & Taxes

2022 TAX BYLAW

2022 Approved Tax Bylaw

2021/22 Budget: Goals & Objectives

The major goal of the 2021 budget is to position the Village for economic, environmental, and social success in a post-pandemic environment.

This will be achieved through a number of medium- and short-term actions based on the strategic discussions administration has had with Council.

  • Maintain effective levels of service for Village residents without increasing property tax revenue or municipal utility rates in 2021.
  • Explore regional opportunities and partnerships through the inter-municipal Collaboration Framework, the Regional Governance study, and amalgamation initiatives with Clearwater County.
Village of Caroline
Village of Caroline
  • Pursue more aggressive economic development strategies through the Central Alberta Economic Partnership, the Province, and the County of Clearwater.
  • Promote and support the Main Street commercial areas as a key aspect of community identity, tourism, and service.
  • Promote and develop authentic community events and attractions that support residents, visitors, and tourists.
  • Support local agencies in providing support services for seniors and vulnerable community members through FCSS United Way, 211, and other programs.
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2021 Capital Budget and Five-Year Capital Plan

It is difficult to prepare a Capital Budget or Five-Year Capital Plan due to uncertainty regarding Provincial and Federal funding sources. The Village has significant borrowing capacity under Provincial regulations. However, the debenture payments place a high burden on a small number of taxpayers within the Village.

The major capital projects for 2021 have been previously approved by Council with the exception of Financial Software Replacement which has been transferred from the Operating Budget. These are as follows:

  • 49th Avenue Reconstruction: $1,250,086 Completion
  • 49th Avenue Sewer Extension: Completion
  • 48th Street Water /Sewer/Roadway Loop: Design for future east development $87,739

Water Treatment Plant:

  • Tablets /computers for SCADA System $10,000
  • Cemetery Columbarium $25,000
  • Lagoon Aeration Lines $25,000
  • Financial Software Replacement $20,000

Key Messages

The key messages regarding the Operating and Capital Budget for 2021 are as follows:

  • There is no increase in total taxation from 2020. Therefore residents can expect similar municipal taxes in 2021.
  • There is no increase in the rates for water and wastewater.
  • Franchise fees for Fortis and ATCO have been increased as previously approved and advertised by Council.
  • The budget includes a number of initiatives to increase partnerships and promote the Village as a tourist hub.
  • The major item in the Capital Budget is the completion of 49th Avenue reconstruction and the westerly extension of sewer services for future development.
  • Several smaller capital items related to the water and wastewater systems and the construction of a columbarium at the Cemetery.
Village of Caroline

2021, 2022 FINAL BUDGET DOCUMENTS