Calgary City Council is currently reviewing its budget for the upcoming year, focusing on several spending amendments. The discussions mark the seventh day of deliberations, with around 20 proposed changes already debated. Mayor Jeromy Farkas mentioned that despite a slower pace than previous years, the council has achieved better investment outcomes while reducing the burden on taxpayers.
Property Tax Adjustments
The council initially proposed a 3.6 percent increase in property tax. However, after recent discussions, this rate has been modified to 1.38 percent, dipping as low as 1.18 percent during debates. As it stands, the increase means an additional $3.90 per month for the average residential homeowner.
Transit Fare Increases and Funding Allocations
In a contentious move, city council voted to raise transit fares. Starting January 1, 2026, the cost of an adult single ticket will increase by 20 cents to $4. Monthly passes will also see a rise: the adult fare will increase by $4 to $126, while youth passes will increase from $86 to $92. This transit fare hike is projected to generate an extra $4 million in annual revenue for Calgary Transit.
Despite the fare increase, Ward 1 Councillor Kim Tyers expressed concerns given the current affordability crisis. However, the funding for Calgary Transit received a significant boost. An amendment proposed by Ward 7 Councillor Myke Atkinson allocated an additional $1 million for the primary transit network and $6 million for the base network, sourced from property taxes. This aligns with the RouteAhead strategy, which aims for annual operational increases of $15 million.
Improving Transit Services
Ward 4 Councillor DJ Kelly emphasized the importance of these amendments, linking the fare increase to necessary service improvements. He argued that the investment in Calgary Transit will enhance the quality, frequency, and reliability of bus services.
Funding for Security and Recreation Initiatives
The council approved $9 million from reserves to fund a pilot project aimed at enhancing security at 12 CTrain stations. This proposal came from Ward 6 Councillor John Pantazopoulos.
Climate Budget Reductions
In a split 9-6 vote, the council decided to cut $9 million from the city’s climate and environment department budget. This amendment, initially proposed by Councillor Tyers, aimed to reduce funding for minor initiatives while preserving essential programs like flood mitigation and habitat restoration.
Support for Recreation Projects
Late during the session, more than $90 million was allocated from reserve funds for recreational projects. This includes $65 million to support the Northeast Athletic Complex and an additional $28.7 million for various park designs and upgrades. There was also an approval for $3 million for the proposed YMCA facility in the West District, though Councillor Tyers opposed this funding.
Other Allocations and Future Discussions
Additional one-time funding requests included $150,000 to continue cleanup efforts outside the Drop-In Centre and $1 million for washroom services at local parks. Various amendments aimed at reducing the budget have been defeated. City Council is set to resume discussions on Wednesday, with more amendments on the table.
