The County of Stettler wants to hear from residents as it kicks off planning for the 2027 budget. An online survey launched on July 23, 2026 and will accept responses until September 1, 2026.
The survey is available through SurveyMonkey, or residents can pick up a paper copy at the County Administration Building at 6602-44 Avenue in Stettler, Alberta. Paper copies can also be requested by emailing [email protected].
The council elected in October 2025 oversaw the 2026 budget, which brought tax increases of 8 percent for farmland and 2 percent for residential and other property classes. Budget 2027 marks the first budget cycle that this council will guide from start to finish.
One of the biggest recent changes is the creation of Heartland Regional Fire in October 2025. The county ended its shared fire agreement with the Town of Stettler and now runs its own fire service. Heartland Regional Fire accounts for just over 9 percent of the county’s overall budget, making it the third-largest expense after public works and administration.
The county’s 2026 budget was built on about $23.5 million in revenue, with more than $7.2 million sent to the province and other agencies, leaving about $16.2 million for local operations.
Council wants feedback to help set priorities for the coming year. The survey is a chance for residents to weigh in on where their tax dollars should go before budget talks begin in earnest.
