The proposed 2027 Utilities Budget is now available for public review:
2027 Proposed Utilities Budget (pdf)
A revised version was posted September 18, 2026. Changes include:
- Update to internal page references on utility cover pages (previously referencing was off by one page).
- Inclusion of Open Capital Commitments section page 53-55. This was initially planned to be included in the Capital Budget book, but for transparency, is now going to be included in both.
Utilities Budget FAQ (pdf)
The Utilities Budget supports essential services that residents and businesses rely on every day, including electricity distribution, water treatment and distribution, wastewater collection and treatment, and waste management services.
The proposed budget outlines investments needed to maintain safe, reliable and sustainable utility services while renewing critical infrastructure and preparing for future community needs. Council will review the proposed budget and consider how to balance affordability, infrastructure investment and long-term sustainability before making final decisions.
The Utilities Budget funds:
- Electricity distribution
- Water treatment and distribution
- Wastewater collection and treatment
- Waste collection and disposal
Unlike many municipal services that are funded through property taxes, utility services are primarily funded through user rates and fees paid by customers who use those services.
Key Priorities in the Proposed Budget
- The proposed 2027 Utilities Budget includes investments to:
- Maintain safe and reliable utility services
- Renew and replace aging infrastructure
- Advance utility modernization initiatives
- Support long-term financial and operational sustainability
- Prepare for future regulatory and industry changes
Major initiatives include:
- Completion of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) implementation
- Continued Water Utilities Modernization initiatives
- Renewal of critical water and wastewater infrastructure
Planning for waste diversion and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) changes
Estimated Customer Impacts
The Utilities Budget establishes the revenue required to operate, maintain and invest in utility services. If Council approves the budget, Administration will update utility rate models and return to Council with recommended utility rates through the Utility Rate Bylaw process later this fall.
Based on the proposed budget and current assumptions, Administration estimates the average residential customer could see impacts across electricity, water, wastewater and waste management services. Actual impacts will vary based on consumption and service usage and remain subject to Council approval.
Key dates
- September 10: Utilities Budget released to Council and public
- September 18: Deadline for public to submit comments/questions to Budget@reddeer.ca.
- September 29: Council debate. Watch live at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCityofRedDeer/streams
Questions and comments received by September 18 will be included in the public Council agenda package for the September 29 budget debate. Personal information will be redacted.