Ponoka, Alberta, residents are being asked to have their say on the Town’s 2027 budget, with the first in-person event set for June 22. The Town has launched its annual consultation process, giving citizens a chance to shape next year’s spending and service levels.
The initial ‘Conversations with Council’ event will run from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the No Frills grocery store. This informal drop-in format allows people to talk directly with council members about what matters most to them.
A citizen survey is already available online at LetsTalkPonoka.ca. Paper copies can be picked up at the Town Office (200, 5604-50 St.), the Ponoka Aquaplex (5315-46 Ave.), or the Ponoka Arena Complex (4410 54 St.) during regular business hours. Completed surveys can be dropped off at those same locations, mailed to #200, 5604-50 St., Ponoka, AB, T4J 1G5, or left in the drop box just inside the west doors of the Ponoka Civic Centre.
Mayor Kevin Ferguson says public input is vital to the process. “The annual public consultation is an important part of the town’s budget planning process,” he said. “Inviting community input helps town council make informed and thoughtful decisions that better reflect the priorities and values of our citizens.”
This year’s consultation follows recent budget realities. The 2026 budget totalled $39.6 million, with a 2 per cent property tax increase. Feedback gathered through the survey and council events will be summarized and presented when council meets for budget deliberations on November 23 and 24, 2026, in the Council Chambers on the third floor of the Civic Centre.
