As I sit to reflect on the last four days of 2025 budget deliberations that have just concluded, I am struck by a profound mix of emotions—pride in our achievements, humility in our challenges, and an unwavering commitment to the future of Red Deer.
Crafting a budget for a city as dynamic as ours is no simple task. It requires boldness, creativity, and an honest look at what our community needs today while laying a foundation for tomorrow. This year, the challenges were evident from the outset. Faced with an $18 million shortfall, we had to ask ourselves difficult questions: Are we doing everything we can to serve Red Deerians? Are our choices defensible? Most importantly, does this budget reflect the city we envision when we think of Alberta’s leading municipality?
I want to extend my gratitude to my colleagues on Council and City’s administration. Together, we approached these past few days with determination and an openness to make tough decisions, but make them together. In the end, Council approved a $512 million operating budget, with a 10.5 per cent tax increase. For the average household, this means an additional $22.75 per month. While this figure is significant, it is a necessary step to rebuild our balance sheet and strengthen our ability to invest in the critical programs and services that shape our community.
Throughout these deliberations, I returned time and again to the image of a strand of three chords—a symbol of strength and resilience. The weave of our community is no different, made up of the connections between residents, businesses, and local government. As Mayor, my responsibility is to every thread in that weave. It is not always easy, and the voices from our community are many and varied. But my obligation is clear: to do what is right, not necessarily what is popular.
This year, doing what is right meant leaving no cushion unshaken, as I challenged administration and Council to look for every opportunity to reduce costs without sacrificing essential services. From fleet enhancements to reserve funds, we scrutinized every line to ensure that today’s decisions do not jeopardize tomorrow’s prosperity.
What struck me most during these deliberations was the opportunity ahead for Red Deer. We are entering a period of material growth, with significant investments on the horizon. The budget’s commitment to projects like Capstone, the Riverwalk Pathway and Green Spine is a full vote of confidence in Red Deer’s future. These initiatives not only enhance our city’s livability but also promise a return on investment that will benefit generations to come.
At the same time, we must be realistic about our current fiscal realities. The choices of the past have brought us to where we are today, but they have not always served us well. Rebuilding the community’s finances is a shared responsibility, and it starts with a budget that is both bold and disciplined.
For those who followed the deliberations, you saw firsthand the transparency of our process. There were moments of emotion, yes, but also moments of clarity and unity as we worked toward a shared vision. I am deeply proud of how we navigated this week as a Council and as a community.
I know this budget will bring changes, and change is not always easy. For some, it will feel like a stretch. But it is also a sign of our city’s resilience and ambition. We are rebuilding not just for today but for a future where Red Deer stands as a beacon of innovation, opportunity, and community spirit.
As we move forward, I encourage all Red Deerians to stay engaged. Your voice matters, and your feedback is invaluable as we implement the choices made in this budget. Together, we will continue to strengthen the weave of our community, ensuring that Red Deer remains a city we are all proud to call home.
To our citizens, thank you for your patience, your participation, and your trust. To my colleagues and City administration, thank you for your hard work and dedication. And to myself, I ask the same questions I pose to everyone who played a role in this process: Did I do everything I could? Did I challenge when it was needed? Did I stay true to the responsibilities entrusted to me as your Mayor? I believe the answer is yes.
This is the way forward for us—a way defined by strength, continuity, and growth.
Ken Johnston is the Mayor of Red Deer.
