2025 Budget

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Update March 31, 2025: The Town has received the final 2025 property assessments. Overall, they have increased by 8.5%. In the draft budget we estimated an increase of 3.0% plus estimated a 3.38% residential and commercial tax rate increase. Because of the difference, Council is considering 6 options to adjust the budget (page 103). Council is considering the options and will make a final decision in the April 14 Council Meeting to pass the final budget. View details in the news feed.

On December 9,Council approved the 2025 draft budget, including a 3.38% property tax increase

Update March 31, 2025: The Town has received the final 2025 property assessments. Overall, they have increased by 8.5%. In the draft budget we estimated an increase of 3.0% plus estimated a 3.38% residential and commercial tax rate increase. Because of the difference, Council is considering 6 options to adjust the budget (page 103). Council is considering the options and will make a final decision in the April 14 Council Meeting to pass the final budget. View details in the news feed.

On December 9,Council approved the 2025 draft budget, including a 3.38% property tax increase for residential and non-residential properties. Council also approved a utility rate increase of 3.44%.


Participate

Consider yourself invited to the 2025 draft budget open house:

  • Come ask the Mayor, Council, and Town staff your budget and property tax questions
  • February 25, 2025, NexSource Centre, 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
  • Can't make it?
  • We understand the open house can’t work for everyone
  • First, read the budget brochure and learn how budgeting works, check out the display boards for the open house, then ask your questions and give feedback here

Have your say


Ask questions about the 2025 Budget

Questions about the 2025 Budget?

  • We are listening
  • If you have questions about the budget or property taxes, ask them below
  • We are doing our best to answer as quickly as we can. Some questions need information from multiple departments and several staff members


Questions about something else? 

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  • Share Thank you for the opportunity to ask questions. In my earlier question I must not have been clear about my question sorry I will try to be more clear here. The tax rate for the town of Sylvan lake have gone up 58% in six years the province was able to lower education tax rate by 5% in six years. Could the town of Sylvan lake lower its tax rate by on Facebook Share Thank you for the opportunity to ask questions. In my earlier question I must not have been clear about my question sorry I will try to be more clear here. The tax rate for the town of Sylvan lake have gone up 58% in six years the province was able to lower education tax rate by 5% in six years. Could the town of Sylvan lake lower its tax rate by on Twitter Share Thank you for the opportunity to ask questions. In my earlier question I must not have been clear about my question sorry I will try to be more clear here. The tax rate for the town of Sylvan lake have gone up 58% in six years the province was able to lower education tax rate by 5% in six years. Could the town of Sylvan lake lower its tax rate by on Linkedin Email Thank you for the opportunity to ask questions. In my earlier question I must not have been clear about my question sorry I will try to be more clear here. The tax rate for the town of Sylvan lake have gone up 58% in six years the province was able to lower education tax rate by 5% in six years. Could the town of Sylvan lake lower its tax rate by link

    Thank you for the opportunity to ask questions. In my earlier question I must not have been clear about my question sorry I will try to be more clear here. The tax rate for the town of Sylvan lake have gone up 58% in six years the province was able to lower education tax rate by 5% in six years. Could the town of Sylvan lake lower its tax rate by

    Paul S asked about 1 month ago

    Hi Paul, 

    We’ve answered your question here.  

    Thanks, 
    Town of Sylvan Lake 

  • Share Thank you for the opportunity to ask questions. Perhaps i wasn't clear In my previous question, sorry I will try to be more clear here. The tax rate for the town of Sylvan lake has gone up 58% in six years. The province, for whatever reason it does not matter concerning this question, was able to lower education tax rate by 5% in six years. Could the town of Sylvan lake lower its tax rate by 5%? I don't know anyone who has had a 58% increase in their wages in six years this is a substantial raise in the tax rate. The average rate of inflation for the last 6 years has been 3.17% X 6years = 19.02% overall increase in inflation in the last six years. That means the tax rate for Sylvan Lake has risen 38.98% more than the inflation rate. How can anyone keep up to these increases? Thank you Paul S on Facebook Share Thank you for the opportunity to ask questions. Perhaps i wasn't clear In my previous question, sorry I will try to be more clear here. The tax rate for the town of Sylvan lake has gone up 58% in six years. The province, for whatever reason it does not matter concerning this question, was able to lower education tax rate by 5% in six years. Could the town of Sylvan lake lower its tax rate by 5%? I don't know anyone who has had a 58% increase in their wages in six years this is a substantial raise in the tax rate. The average rate of inflation for the last 6 years has been 3.17% X 6years = 19.02% overall increase in inflation in the last six years. That means the tax rate for Sylvan Lake has risen 38.98% more than the inflation rate. How can anyone keep up to these increases? Thank you Paul S on Twitter Share Thank you for the opportunity to ask questions. Perhaps i wasn't clear In my previous question, sorry I will try to be more clear here. The tax rate for the town of Sylvan lake has gone up 58% in six years. The province, for whatever reason it does not matter concerning this question, was able to lower education tax rate by 5% in six years. Could the town of Sylvan lake lower its tax rate by 5%? I don't know anyone who has had a 58% increase in their wages in six years this is a substantial raise in the tax rate. The average rate of inflation for the last 6 years has been 3.17% X 6years = 19.02% overall increase in inflation in the last six years. That means the tax rate for Sylvan Lake has risen 38.98% more than the inflation rate. How can anyone keep up to these increases? Thank you Paul S on Linkedin Email Thank you for the opportunity to ask questions. Perhaps i wasn't clear In my previous question, sorry I will try to be more clear here. The tax rate for the town of Sylvan lake has gone up 58% in six years. The province, for whatever reason it does not matter concerning this question, was able to lower education tax rate by 5% in six years. Could the town of Sylvan lake lower its tax rate by 5%? I don't know anyone who has had a 58% increase in their wages in six years this is a substantial raise in the tax rate. The average rate of inflation for the last 6 years has been 3.17% X 6years = 19.02% overall increase in inflation in the last six years. That means the tax rate for Sylvan Lake has risen 38.98% more than the inflation rate. How can anyone keep up to these increases? Thank you Paul S link

    Thank you for the opportunity to ask questions. Perhaps i wasn't clear In my previous question, sorry I will try to be more clear here. The tax rate for the town of Sylvan lake has gone up 58% in six years. The province, for whatever reason it does not matter concerning this question, was able to lower education tax rate by 5% in six years. Could the town of Sylvan lake lower its tax rate by 5%? I don't know anyone who has had a 58% increase in their wages in six years this is a substantial raise in the tax rate. The average rate of inflation for the last 6 years has been 3.17% X 6years = 19.02% overall increase in inflation in the last six years. That means the tax rate for Sylvan Lake has risen 38.98% more than the inflation rate. How can anyone keep up to these increases? Thank you Paul S

    Paul S asked about 1 month ago

    Hi Paul, 

    We’ve answered your question here.  

    Thanks, 
    Town of Sylvan Lake 

  • Share Hello I’m not sure if my last question went through if it did please disregard this question. Our taxes went up 58% in the last 6 years. Inflation went up 19% in the last six years. Our taxes have surpassed inflation by roughly 39%. Can we lower our taxes by 5%? on Facebook Share Hello I’m not sure if my last question went through if it did please disregard this question. Our taxes went up 58% in the last 6 years. Inflation went up 19% in the last six years. Our taxes have surpassed inflation by roughly 39%. Can we lower our taxes by 5%? on Twitter Share Hello I’m not sure if my last question went through if it did please disregard this question. Our taxes went up 58% in the last 6 years. Inflation went up 19% in the last six years. Our taxes have surpassed inflation by roughly 39%. Can we lower our taxes by 5%? on Linkedin Email Hello I’m not sure if my last question went through if it did please disregard this question. Our taxes went up 58% in the last 6 years. Inflation went up 19% in the last six years. Our taxes have surpassed inflation by roughly 39%. Can we lower our taxes by 5%? link

    Hello I’m not sure if my last question went through if it did please disregard this question. Our taxes went up 58% in the last 6 years. Inflation went up 19% in the last six years. Our taxes have surpassed inflation by roughly 39%. Can we lower our taxes by 5%?

    Paul S asked about 1 month ago

    Hello Paul,  

    Thanks for reaching out to clarify your questions. It seems like you are asking for tax cuts. We replied to a similar question from you in another post. Here’s a recap from that answer:  

    While 0% has short term benefits, there is a trade-off. Zero or low tax increases mean we must catch up later. When taxes don’t keep pace with inflation, our reserves get low because we rely on savings more. Then we save less for critical projects in the future, like water infrastructure. When our savings (reserves) get low, it means that we must borrow more often. Additionally, the Town has no control over inflation (see page 2). Our cost of maintaining infrastructure and providing services has gone up. Taxes must also rise because we can’t purchase supplies as cheaply as we could in the past.  Striking a balance between affordability, today’s operating costs, and future capital projects is difficult. 

    Sometimes it’s easier to chat in person, so we’d suggest that you attend the budget open house tonight at the NexSource Centre from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. If you can't make that, you can always pop into a Chatting with Council. The next one is on April 10. Please check the calendar for more dates and to confirm locations and times. 

    Sincerely, 
    Town of Sylvan Lake 

  • Share Hello. I was looking at the residential property tax rate for sylvan lake from 2018 to 2024. The final tax rate in 2018 was .621714% and for 2024 the final tax rate was .985180% that is an increase of 58% in the final tax rate in 6 years. Yet the educational rate was .264000% for 2018 and .251280% for 2024 that means the educational rate was decreased by 5% in the last 6 years. You were able to bring down the educational rate by 5% could we bring the final tax rate down by 5%? Thank you Paul S on Facebook Share Hello. I was looking at the residential property tax rate for sylvan lake from 2018 to 2024. The final tax rate in 2018 was .621714% and for 2024 the final tax rate was .985180% that is an increase of 58% in the final tax rate in 6 years. Yet the educational rate was .264000% for 2018 and .251280% for 2024 that means the educational rate was decreased by 5% in the last 6 years. You were able to bring down the educational rate by 5% could we bring the final tax rate down by 5%? Thank you Paul S on Twitter Share Hello. I was looking at the residential property tax rate for sylvan lake from 2018 to 2024. The final tax rate in 2018 was .621714% and for 2024 the final tax rate was .985180% that is an increase of 58% in the final tax rate in 6 years. Yet the educational rate was .264000% for 2018 and .251280% for 2024 that means the educational rate was decreased by 5% in the last 6 years. You were able to bring down the educational rate by 5% could we bring the final tax rate down by 5%? Thank you Paul S on Linkedin Email Hello. I was looking at the residential property tax rate for sylvan lake from 2018 to 2024. The final tax rate in 2018 was .621714% and for 2024 the final tax rate was .985180% that is an increase of 58% in the final tax rate in 6 years. Yet the educational rate was .264000% for 2018 and .251280% for 2024 that means the educational rate was decreased by 5% in the last 6 years. You were able to bring down the educational rate by 5% could we bring the final tax rate down by 5%? Thank you Paul S link

    Hello. I was looking at the residential property tax rate for sylvan lake from 2018 to 2024. The final tax rate in 2018 was .621714% and for 2024 the final tax rate was .985180% that is an increase of 58% in the final tax rate in 6 years. Yet the educational rate was .264000% for 2018 and .251280% for 2024 that means the educational rate was decreased by 5% in the last 6 years. You were able to bring down the educational rate by 5% could we bring the final tax rate down by 5%? Thank you Paul S

    Paul S asked about 2 months ago

    Hello Paul, 

    Thanks for submitting another question! If you look on page 6 of the Budget Brochure, you’ll find information about the provincial education tax rate. The province sets the education tax rate, not the municipality. You can learn more about how the Province of Alberta sets your education tax rate here. 

    However, the end cost of the education tax is determined by the assessed value of your home. If your assessed value goes up, your final tax amount will also go up even if the education tax rate stays the same. The Town does not control factors that change the market value of your home, such as:  

    • Renovations  

    • Increases in market value 

    If you’d like to learn more about the assessment process, you can read the province’s Guide to property assessment and taxation in Alberta. 

     

    Your questions show that you care about our community, so please let us know if you have any other questions! I’m sure that many other Lakers would like to know the same thing.  

  • Share I love Sylvan Lake! I used to work for a contractor that regularly did work for the Public Works department for the town that I once lived in. The Public Works department in any town usually demands the most funds. At the end of every budget year the Public Works manager would employ us to use up all of the Public Works budget so that there would be more money for next year. This method of using up all the budget so we will get more next year occurs in industry, government, etc. and of course municipalities. If I were to run my own finances this way I would not be successful financially and my life would be fraught with constantly looking for more money to fund my household yet never being able to save money for leaner times or for future retirement ect. This year the town of Sylvan Lake is proposing a 3.38% tax increase. If this proposed tax was to be implemented every year for the next ten years I would have accumulated a tax increase of 33.8% after this ten year period. The way I run my finances, I may set a budget so that I do not overspend and also that I may accomplish my desired amount of saving. I even try to not spend when I don't have to so that my money is not wasted and can be used somewhere else or saved for other needs. I notice we put fireworks several times a year and there are fire pits available on the weekend manned by town employees. Now I know we could cut back on some programs or activities but this mater with the budget increasing every year is substantial. What about operating the town of Sylvan lake in such a way that we could reduce taxes? Also why is there such an effort to attract tourism here you would not have to do anything and people would come here because it is so beautiful? The amount of people who come here now, is it sustainable? I am not certain what we are trying to accomplish? Do we want to be as big as Red Deer? Growth is normal, sometimes good sometimes bad. But how much growth are we looking at? Also on a personal note I did renovations on my home and my taxes increased $2,000 in one year. What motivation do I have to report renovations when my taxes would be raised that much? I find this amount of tax increase very frustrating and overwhelming. Once again I love this town it is beautiful here. Thank you for this opportunity to speak. Paul S on Facebook Share I love Sylvan Lake! I used to work for a contractor that regularly did work for the Public Works department for the town that I once lived in. The Public Works department in any town usually demands the most funds. At the end of every budget year the Public Works manager would employ us to use up all of the Public Works budget so that there would be more money for next year. This method of using up all the budget so we will get more next year occurs in industry, government, etc. and of course municipalities. If I were to run my own finances this way I would not be successful financially and my life would be fraught with constantly looking for more money to fund my household yet never being able to save money for leaner times or for future retirement ect. This year the town of Sylvan Lake is proposing a 3.38% tax increase. If this proposed tax was to be implemented every year for the next ten years I would have accumulated a tax increase of 33.8% after this ten year period. The way I run my finances, I may set a budget so that I do not overspend and also that I may accomplish my desired amount of saving. I even try to not spend when I don't have to so that my money is not wasted and can be used somewhere else or saved for other needs. I notice we put fireworks several times a year and there are fire pits available on the weekend manned by town employees. Now I know we could cut back on some programs or activities but this mater with the budget increasing every year is substantial. What about operating the town of Sylvan lake in such a way that we could reduce taxes? Also why is there such an effort to attract tourism here you would not have to do anything and people would come here because it is so beautiful? The amount of people who come here now, is it sustainable? I am not certain what we are trying to accomplish? Do we want to be as big as Red Deer? Growth is normal, sometimes good sometimes bad. But how much growth are we looking at? Also on a personal note I did renovations on my home and my taxes increased $2,000 in one year. What motivation do I have to report renovations when my taxes would be raised that much? I find this amount of tax increase very frustrating and overwhelming. Once again I love this town it is beautiful here. Thank you for this opportunity to speak. Paul S on Twitter Share I love Sylvan Lake! I used to work for a contractor that regularly did work for the Public Works department for the town that I once lived in. The Public Works department in any town usually demands the most funds. At the end of every budget year the Public Works manager would employ us to use up all of the Public Works budget so that there would be more money for next year. This method of using up all the budget so we will get more next year occurs in industry, government, etc. and of course municipalities. If I were to run my own finances this way I would not be successful financially and my life would be fraught with constantly looking for more money to fund my household yet never being able to save money for leaner times or for future retirement ect. This year the town of Sylvan Lake is proposing a 3.38% tax increase. If this proposed tax was to be implemented every year for the next ten years I would have accumulated a tax increase of 33.8% after this ten year period. The way I run my finances, I may set a budget so that I do not overspend and also that I may accomplish my desired amount of saving. I even try to not spend when I don't have to so that my money is not wasted and can be used somewhere else or saved for other needs. I notice we put fireworks several times a year and there are fire pits available on the weekend manned by town employees. Now I know we could cut back on some programs or activities but this mater with the budget increasing every year is substantial. What about operating the town of Sylvan lake in such a way that we could reduce taxes? Also why is there such an effort to attract tourism here you would not have to do anything and people would come here because it is so beautiful? The amount of people who come here now, is it sustainable? I am not certain what we are trying to accomplish? Do we want to be as big as Red Deer? Growth is normal, sometimes good sometimes bad. But how much growth are we looking at? Also on a personal note I did renovations on my home and my taxes increased $2,000 in one year. What motivation do I have to report renovations when my taxes would be raised that much? I find this amount of tax increase very frustrating and overwhelming. Once again I love this town it is beautiful here. Thank you for this opportunity to speak. Paul S on Linkedin Email I love Sylvan Lake! I used to work for a contractor that regularly did work for the Public Works department for the town that I once lived in. The Public Works department in any town usually demands the most funds. At the end of every budget year the Public Works manager would employ us to use up all of the Public Works budget so that there would be more money for next year. This method of using up all the budget so we will get more next year occurs in industry, government, etc. and of course municipalities. If I were to run my own finances this way I would not be successful financially and my life would be fraught with constantly looking for more money to fund my household yet never being able to save money for leaner times or for future retirement ect. This year the town of Sylvan Lake is proposing a 3.38% tax increase. If this proposed tax was to be implemented every year for the next ten years I would have accumulated a tax increase of 33.8% after this ten year period. The way I run my finances, I may set a budget so that I do not overspend and also that I may accomplish my desired amount of saving. I even try to not spend when I don't have to so that my money is not wasted and can be used somewhere else or saved for other needs. I notice we put fireworks several times a year and there are fire pits available on the weekend manned by town employees. Now I know we could cut back on some programs or activities but this mater with the budget increasing every year is substantial. What about operating the town of Sylvan lake in such a way that we could reduce taxes? Also why is there such an effort to attract tourism here you would not have to do anything and people would come here because it is so beautiful? The amount of people who come here now, is it sustainable? I am not certain what we are trying to accomplish? Do we want to be as big as Red Deer? Growth is normal, sometimes good sometimes bad. But how much growth are we looking at? Also on a personal note I did renovations on my home and my taxes increased $2,000 in one year. What motivation do I have to report renovations when my taxes would be raised that much? I find this amount of tax increase very frustrating and overwhelming. Once again I love this town it is beautiful here. Thank you for this opportunity to speak. Paul S link

    I love Sylvan Lake! I used to work for a contractor that regularly did work for the Public Works department for the town that I once lived in. The Public Works department in any town usually demands the most funds. At the end of every budget year the Public Works manager would employ us to use up all of the Public Works budget so that there would be more money for next year. This method of using up all the budget so we will get more next year occurs in industry, government, etc. and of course municipalities. If I were to run my own finances this way I would not be successful financially and my life would be fraught with constantly looking for more money to fund my household yet never being able to save money for leaner times or for future retirement ect. This year the town of Sylvan Lake is proposing a 3.38% tax increase. If this proposed tax was to be implemented every year for the next ten years I would have accumulated a tax increase of 33.8% after this ten year period. The way I run my finances, I may set a budget so that I do not overspend and also that I may accomplish my desired amount of saving. I even try to not spend when I don't have to so that my money is not wasted and can be used somewhere else or saved for other needs. I notice we put fireworks several times a year and there are fire pits available on the weekend manned by town employees. Now I know we could cut back on some programs or activities but this mater with the budget increasing every year is substantial. What about operating the town of Sylvan lake in such a way that we could reduce taxes? Also why is there such an effort to attract tourism here you would not have to do anything and people would come here because it is so beautiful? The amount of people who come here now, is it sustainable? I am not certain what we are trying to accomplish? Do we want to be as big as Red Deer? Growth is normal, sometimes good sometimes bad. But how much growth are we looking at? Also on a personal note I did renovations on my home and my taxes increased $2,000 in one year. What motivation do I have to report renovations when my taxes would be raised that much? I find this amount of tax increase very frustrating and overwhelming. Once again I love this town it is beautiful here. Thank you for this opportunity to speak. Paul S

    Paul S asked about 2 months ago

    Hi Paul, 

    Thanks for taking the time to talk with us! We love Sylvan Lake too, and your questions show you really care about our community. Let’s work through your questions one by one.  

    You asked: I love Sylvan Lake! I used to work for a contractor that regularly did work for the Public Works department for the town that I once lived in. The Public Works department in any town usually demands the most funds. At the end of every budget year the Public Works manager would employ us to use up all of the Public Works budget so that there would be more money for next year. This method of using up all the budget so we will get more next year occurs in industry, government, etc. and of course municipalities. If I were to run my own finances this way I would not be successful financially and my life would be fraught with constantly looking for more money to fund my household yet never being able to save money for leaner times or for future retirement ect. This year the town of Sylvan Lake is proposing a 3.38% tax increase. If this proposed tax was to be implemented every year for the next ten years I would have accumulated a tax increase of 33.8% after this ten year period. The way I run my finances, I may set a budget so that I do not overspend and also that I may accomplish my desired amount of saving. I even try to not spend when I don't have to so that my money is not wasted and can be used somewhere else or saved for other needs.  

    You are speaking about traditional budgeting, where budgets grow or stay constant year over year regardless of operating and capital project requirements. If money isn’t spent it’s very difficult to get back for the next year. This is a serious concern that Town staff and Council also have. That’s why in 2024 we started zero-based budgeting. This style of budgeting has every department start at zero. They list the projects and funding that they need that year. Then, Council approves the budget for those projects. Less is wasted and departments get what they need. Since 2024 was our first year, we are still working through the logistics of changing to this new style of budgeting.  

    We’re excited to welcome a new CAO this spring. They will bring financial experience from other municipalities and a fresh perspective.  Together with Council, the new CAO will set the budgeting style for the future. They should help us continue to improve our budgeting process and look for efficiencies wherever possible. We encourage you to continue to advocate for efficient budgeting by staying connected to engage.sylvanlake.ca, and by attending open houses.  


    You asked: I notice we put fireworks several times a year and there are fire pits available on the weekend manned by town employees. Now I know we could cut back on some programs or activities but this mater with the budget increasing every year is substantial. What about operating the town of Sylvan lake in such a way that we could reduce taxes?  

    We aim to strike a balance between “needs” and “nice-to-haves,” ensuring we maintain Sylvan Lake as a vibrant place to live, work, and visit. Programs like fireworks and weekend fire pits do fall into the “nice-to-have” category, but they also contribute to our community connection, which is a key driver of our local economy. That said, we constantly evaluate whether these initiatives provide value for money and align with community priorities. 

    Regarding the budget and taxes, it’s a challenge faced by many municipalities. Costs rise annually due to inflation, increased service demands, and necessary infrastructure maintenance or upgrades. However, we are always looking for efficiencies and ways to reduce costs where possible.  

    Reducing taxes outright while maintaining the quality of life our community expects would require significant changes, like cutting services, programs, or delaying infrastructure investments. These are tough conversations, but we are open to hearing more from you and other residents about which services you’d prioritize or deem less critical. We ask this question annually through our budget survey and other means. 

      

    You asked: Also why is there such an effort to attract tourism here you would not have to do anything and people would come here because it is so beautiful?  

    The cost spent on promoting tourism is very low. Please have a look at the pie chart (How much of my tax dollars are funding each department?) on page 4 of the Budget Brochure. Tourism & Tourism Marketing uses only 0.7% of the Town’s total budget. This is separate from the budget to maintain the waterfront parks, which includes garbage removal, washroom maintenance, and grounds maintenance.  

    We are always looking for ways to bring in money to cover costs without relying on taxes. One example is the visitor-paid parking program, which brought in $524,000 Net last year (See page 9 of the budget brochure). I also appreciate the feedback on fireworks and other programs that may not be a priority for all residents. While we value opportunities for residents to connect at events and celebrations, I will make sure this feedback is passed along to all of Council. 

    If you have any ideas for generating revenue without incurring costs to the Town, please let us know here.

     

    You asked: The amount of people who come here now, is it sustainable? I am not certain what we are trying to accomplish? Do we want to be as big as Red Deer? Growth is normal, sometimes good sometimes bad. But how much growth are we looking at?  

    That’s a great question, and I appreciate you bringing it up. Sylvan Lake is a vibrant, growing community, and while we’re not aiming to become as large as Red Deer, growth is something that happens naturally in a community as desirable as ours. Our goal isn’t growth for the sake of growth—it’s about balancing growth in a way that maintains the small-town charm and quality of life that makes Sylvan Lake so special. 

    We promote people to live here because we want to attract residents who value the lifestyle and opportunities our town offers. With more residents, we can support better amenities, services, and businesses that benefit everyone. At the same time, we’re always considering sustainability. Our planning focuses on ensuring that infrastructure, schools, green spaces, and resources can support Lakers without compromising what makes Sylvan Lake such a great place to live. 

    Council is committed to managing growth responsibly, guided by long-term plans like our Municipal Development Plan. We want Sylvan Lake to thrive, but in a way that feels right for our community. 

     

    You Asked: Also on a personal note I did renovations on my home and my taxes increased $2,000 in one year. What motivation do I have to report renovations when my taxes would be raised that much? I find this amount of tax increase very frustrating and overwhelming.  

    It is tough to balance the need for renovations with the associated increase in assessed value. Money is tight. However, you do have recourse. Please visit sylvanlake.ca/taxes and click on Assessed value and appealing. There you’ll find instructions on how to appeal the assessed value of your home. 

     

    Thanks again Paul, for taking the time to contribute to our community and chat with us. If you have any further questions, please reach out.  Consider yourself invited to the open house on February 25, 2025, at the NexSource Centre, from 4:00 – 7:00 PM. 

    Sincerely, 
    Megan Hanson, Mayor 

     

  • Share Has the town considered a lake use fee for non-residents (similar to a toll) in addition to the parking fees to assist in covering off the costs associated with maintaining the lake shore and town amenities during peak tourism? It can be as simple as parking pay stations around the town/lake front attached to license plates. As a resident of Sylvan it's difficult to really enjoy the spirit of living in Sylvan Lake with the enormous crowds growing each year driving up the price of everyday goods for the locals and then having to pay higher taxes above Red Deer for the somewhat pristine atmosphere that residents don't really get to enjoy anyways. on Facebook Share Has the town considered a lake use fee for non-residents (similar to a toll) in addition to the parking fees to assist in covering off the costs associated with maintaining the lake shore and town amenities during peak tourism? It can be as simple as parking pay stations around the town/lake front attached to license plates. As a resident of Sylvan it's difficult to really enjoy the spirit of living in Sylvan Lake with the enormous crowds growing each year driving up the price of everyday goods for the locals and then having to pay higher taxes above Red Deer for the somewhat pristine atmosphere that residents don't really get to enjoy anyways. on Twitter Share Has the town considered a lake use fee for non-residents (similar to a toll) in addition to the parking fees to assist in covering off the costs associated with maintaining the lake shore and town amenities during peak tourism? It can be as simple as parking pay stations around the town/lake front attached to license plates. As a resident of Sylvan it's difficult to really enjoy the spirit of living in Sylvan Lake with the enormous crowds growing each year driving up the price of everyday goods for the locals and then having to pay higher taxes above Red Deer for the somewhat pristine atmosphere that residents don't really get to enjoy anyways. on Linkedin Email Has the town considered a lake use fee for non-residents (similar to a toll) in addition to the parking fees to assist in covering off the costs associated with maintaining the lake shore and town amenities during peak tourism? It can be as simple as parking pay stations around the town/lake front attached to license plates. As a resident of Sylvan it's difficult to really enjoy the spirit of living in Sylvan Lake with the enormous crowds growing each year driving up the price of everyday goods for the locals and then having to pay higher taxes above Red Deer for the somewhat pristine atmosphere that residents don't really get to enjoy anyways. link

    Has the town considered a lake use fee for non-residents (similar to a toll) in addition to the parking fees to assist in covering off the costs associated with maintaining the lake shore and town amenities during peak tourism? It can be as simple as parking pay stations around the town/lake front attached to license plates. As a resident of Sylvan it's difficult to really enjoy the spirit of living in Sylvan Lake with the enormous crowds growing each year driving up the price of everyday goods for the locals and then having to pay higher taxes above Red Deer for the somewhat pristine atmosphere that residents don't really get to enjoy anyways.

    Stan asked about 2 months ago

    Hi Stan,  

    Thanks for reaching out! We understand how the growing popularity of the lake can impact residents. Your feedback is incredibly valuable as we work to strike a balance between welcoming visitors and maintaining the quality of life for those who call Sylvan Lake home. That’s why we created the pay parking system, to help cover some of the waterfront maintenance costs.  

    Other Lakers have had the same idea about creating a day use fee alongside pay parking along the waterfront. Check out the comments in the 2025 Budget Resident priorities survey starting on page 18. It’s available under Important Documents if you scroll down on the 2025 Budget page.   

    Although we have considered the fee, it is no longer on the table for future budgets. It is complex to implement, because it would require working with other levels of government to figure out if it’s possible to charge a day-use fee to non-residents. It’s also just plain tough to create gates where people buy a day use pass because there are many access points to our waterfront parks, many outside of our own municipal boundaries. Lineups at gates could also create traffic jams. 

    However, we review pay parking revenue and consider rate increases during budgeting every year. We have increased rates in the past. You can check out pay parking revenue on page 9 of the Budget Brochure.   

    Thanks again for sharing your thoughts, and please don’t hesitate to reach out with any further questions or ideas.  

    Megan Hanson, Mayor 

  • Share I don't recall receiving awareness that the 2024 budget was being increased by 5.38% and now the 2025 budget an additional 3.38%. Is the town able to provide a graph showing witch municipal departments our tax dollars are being allocated to with reasons as to why more money is needed for the last 5 years or so. It would be nice to see a trend over the years to see where the tax money is going. on Facebook Share I don't recall receiving awareness that the 2024 budget was being increased by 5.38% and now the 2025 budget an additional 3.38%. Is the town able to provide a graph showing witch municipal departments our tax dollars are being allocated to with reasons as to why more money is needed for the last 5 years or so. It would be nice to see a trend over the years to see where the tax money is going. on Twitter Share I don't recall receiving awareness that the 2024 budget was being increased by 5.38% and now the 2025 budget an additional 3.38%. Is the town able to provide a graph showing witch municipal departments our tax dollars are being allocated to with reasons as to why more money is needed for the last 5 years or so. It would be nice to see a trend over the years to see where the tax money is going. on Linkedin Email I don't recall receiving awareness that the 2024 budget was being increased by 5.38% and now the 2025 budget an additional 3.38%. Is the town able to provide a graph showing witch municipal departments our tax dollars are being allocated to with reasons as to why more money is needed for the last 5 years or so. It would be nice to see a trend over the years to see where the tax money is going. link

    I don't recall receiving awareness that the 2024 budget was being increased by 5.38% and now the 2025 budget an additional 3.38%. Is the town able to provide a graph showing witch municipal departments our tax dollars are being allocated to with reasons as to why more money is needed for the last 5 years or so. It would be nice to see a trend over the years to see where the tax money is going.

    Stan asked about 2 months ago

    Hi Stan, 

    Thanks for reaching out. Let’s address each of your questions separately. 

    You missed the budget communications this year and wanted to know how we communicate. We've been running an annual multi-channel budget communication campaign for over 10 years. Please check it out and let us know if you have suggestions for communicating we haven’t thought of!  

    You asked why we need more money and a tax increase. The Town has responded to Laker’s requests with 0% tax increases in 6 of the last 10 years (page 2). While 0% has short term benefits, there is a trade-off. Zero or low tax increases mean we must catch up later. When taxes don’t keep pace with inflation, our reserves get low because we rely on savings more. Then we save less for critical projects in the future, like water infrastructure. When our savings (reserves) get low, it means that we must borrow more often. Additionally, the Town has no control over inflation (see page 2). Our cost of maintaining infrastructure and providing services has gone up. Taxes must also rise because we can’t purchase supplies as cheaply as we could in the past.  Striking a balance between affordability, today’s operating costs, and future capital projects is difficult. 

    You asked for detailed spending information. You can view a year-over-year comparison on page 3 of the 2024 Open House display boards. We also share a variety of financial information every year, including the Budget Brochure. If you check out the 2025 Draft Budget news post under the News Feed on the Budget Page, you can view: 

     

    Since our engage.sylvanlake.ca website was built in 2023, you can view the 2023 and 2022 budget documents here. We encourage you to also read through the 2025 Budget page, and the 2024 Budget page. Also, keep in mind that operating budgets and capital budgets are separate. 

    I know it's a bit of work to compare this information. After reading the material, let us know if you have any more specific questions. We’d be happy to answer. And consider yourself invited to attend the Budget Open House, where you can talk with Council members directly about all your budget questions! 

    Thanks for taking the time to ask your questions. We appreciate Lakers reaching out and talking with us!  

    Sincerely,
    Town of Sylvan Lake

  • Share I would like to know what the reasoning behind the 3.44% utility rate increase is. on Facebook Share I would like to know what the reasoning behind the 3.44% utility rate increase is. on Twitter Share I would like to know what the reasoning behind the 3.44% utility rate increase is. on Linkedin Email I would like to know what the reasoning behind the 3.44% utility rate increase is. link

    I would like to know what the reasoning behind the 3.44% utility rate increase is.

    Stan asked about 2 months ago

    Hi Stan, 

    You can find the rationale for the utility rate increase in the 2025 Budget brochure, on page 5.  The brochure, and other budget documents, are available under Important Documents if you scroll down on the 2025 Budget page. 

    If after reading the information, you want to learn more about the utility rates, please feel free to ask another question. You have submitted some other questions as well. Thank you, and we are working on the answers. You should have a response next week.

    Thank you, 
    Town of Sylvan Lake 

  • Share I see the 2025 budget includes an increase of 3.38%. Although, its nice to see overall where our tax dollars are being spent, I'd like to see what department(s) the 3.38% is being applied to and what is the reasoning behind the additional funding. on Facebook Share I see the 2025 budget includes an increase of 3.38%. Although, its nice to see overall where our tax dollars are being spent, I'd like to see what department(s) the 3.38% is being applied to and what is the reasoning behind the additional funding. on Twitter Share I see the 2025 budget includes an increase of 3.38%. Although, its nice to see overall where our tax dollars are being spent, I'd like to see what department(s) the 3.38% is being applied to and what is the reasoning behind the additional funding. on Linkedin Email I see the 2025 budget includes an increase of 3.38%. Although, its nice to see overall where our tax dollars are being spent, I'd like to see what department(s) the 3.38% is being applied to and what is the reasoning behind the additional funding. link

    I see the 2025 budget includes an increase of 3.38%. Although, its nice to see overall where our tax dollars are being spent, I'd like to see what department(s) the 3.38% is being applied to and what is the reasoning behind the additional funding.

    Stan asked about 2 months ago

    Hi Stan, 

    You can find the breakdown of spending in the 2025 Budget brochure, on page 4. The brochure, and other budget documents, are available under Important Documents if you scroll down on the 2025 Budget page. 

    If after reading the information, you’d like more specific details, you are welcome to ask another question. 

    Thank you, 

    Town of Sylvan Lake 

  • Share 1. I see the future budgets have increased worked in. I've been retired since 2010, every increase reduces my buying power. May I suggest you spend more time in 2025 finding efficiency, and hold 2026 budget at zero. It can be done. Each new resident comes with a wallet. on Facebook Share 1. I see the future budgets have increased worked in. I've been retired since 2010, every increase reduces my buying power. May I suggest you spend more time in 2025 finding efficiency, and hold 2026 budget at zero. It can be done. Each new resident comes with a wallet. on Twitter Share 1. I see the future budgets have increased worked in. I've been retired since 2010, every increase reduces my buying power. May I suggest you spend more time in 2025 finding efficiency, and hold 2026 budget at zero. It can be done. Each new resident comes with a wallet. on Linkedin Email 1. I see the future budgets have increased worked in. I've been retired since 2010, every increase reduces my buying power. May I suggest you spend more time in 2025 finding efficiency, and hold 2026 budget at zero. It can be done. Each new resident comes with a wallet. link

    1. I see the future budgets have increased worked in. I've been retired since 2010, every increase reduces my buying power. May I suggest you spend more time in 2025 finding efficiency, and hold 2026 budget at zero. It can be done. Each new resident comes with a wallet.

    Bryson J asked 3 months ago

    Hello Bryson, 

    Thanks for reaching out with your concerns, and we’ve forwarded them on to the Mayor. She is sharing them with the rest of Council.  

    We are currently taking feedback for the 2025 budget. For the 2026 budget, public feedback opportunities start this summer and fall.  

    That said, consider yourself invited to attend the 2025 Budget open house on February 25, 2025. If you’d like to share your thoughts with Council, it's from 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM at the NexSource Centre.  

Page last updated: 31 Mar 2025, 03:17 PM