Beaumont, AB – Beaumont City Council last night approved a budget for 2020 that adds significant recreation opportunities for residents and protects services and infrastructure during a time of fiscal restraint.

“Beaumont continues growing at one of the fastest rates in Canada and we are investing now to make sure residents can still enjoy a high quality of life with excellent services and facilities,” said Mayor John Stewart. “Through prudent planning by council and the city, we’re able to improve access to recreation and protect our existing infrastructure without putting an undue burden on families.”

The approved tax increase of 1.6 per cent – approximately $45 per year for the average household – is the city’s lowest in more than 10 years, below the regional average increase of 1.8 per cent and lower than Alberta’s forecast inflation of two per cent in 2020.

Water and wastewater utility rates were also increased a total of two per cent – about $25.53 per year for the average household – reflecting increased costs from regional water and wastewater commissions. There were no changes to garbage collection or utility franchise fees.

In addition to funding staff and equipment for the opening of the expanded Beaumont Sport and Recreation Centre later this year, the 2020 budget supports several recreation and culture projects, including:

• A feasibility study for an arts facility
• New outdoor rinks in the Dansereau neighbourhood, at the Ken Nichol Regional Recreation Centre (KNRRC)
• An additional baseball diamond and playground equipment in Coloniale
• A conceptual design and geotechnical study for an outdoor multi-use field.

The city is also exploring options with the County of Leduc for a joint recreation area that could include baseball diamonds and a dog park.

Budget 2020 maintains service levels for residents and protects existing city infrastructure, such as a roof replacement for the KNRRC, repairs to the LeBlanc Canal Bridge in Four Seasons Park, refurbishing the Bellevue outdoor rink, along with overlay work and a detailed design for improvements to Township Road 510.

Media contact:
Mike Berezowsky
Manager, Communications & Marketing
780-243-0458