(Cochrane, AB) – Town Administration presented its draft 2026 budget at the November 3 Committee of the Whole meeting. The proposed budget outlines how the Town plans to maintain essential services, support a growing community and invest in Cochrane’s long-term sustainability.
The proposed 2026 budget includes a 3.25% increase in the overall revenue requirement, which equals about $14.16 per month for the average household, based on an assessed home value of $680,700. Guided by resident feedback, the budget aims to balance inflationary pressures and community growth while maintaining the high-quality services and infrastructure Cochrane residents rely on.
Throughout spring 2025, residents shared their perspectives through online surveys, postcards, in-person events and telephone interviews. Nearly 1,000 residents participated, an impressive 69% increase in participation compared to last year. Residents emphasized the importance of maintaining strong core services, planning responsibly for Cochrane’s future and investing in infrastructure, parks and recreation. They also expressed a desire to understand how their tax dollars are used and to see visible community benefits. This community feedback played a key role in shaping the 2026 draft budget and investment priorities.
The engagement process, supported by research firm Advanis, the Chamber of Commerce Trade Show and a community focus group facilitated by Parsons Dialogue, provided valuable insight into residents’ values and expectations that helped guide the development of the draft budget.
The draft budget prioritizes maintaining core services while investing in the infrastructure and programs that make Cochrane a great place to live:
- Maintaining core services: Continued delivery of road maintenance, snow clearing, waste and recycling, community safety and recreation programs.
- Infrastructure improvements: Over $36 million in capital projects to enhance utilities, roads and community spaces.
- Protective and emergency services: Additional staff and equipment for fire services and municipal enforcement.
- Community programs: Continued support for arts, culture and social programs that strengthen community connections.
- Town operations: Fourteen new full-time positions across departments to keep up with service demand as Cochrane grows.
To help offset inflation, the budget includes a $320,800 draw from the tax stabilization reserve, which helps maintain service stability and minimize tax fluctuations.
Residents are invited to review the draft budget and share feedback with Council before budget deliberations begin later in November. All feedback will be shared with Council prior to budget deliberations, which are expected to begin in late November. Specific dates will be shared once confirmed.
Public engagement opportunities:
- In-person information sessions at the Spray Lake Sawmills Centre
- Friday, Nov. 14: 4 – 8 p.m.
- Saturday, Nov. 15: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
- Drop in to review budget highlights, ask questions, and chat with Council and Town staff.
- Online engagement: Visit LetsTalkCochrane.ca before Nov. 23 to explore the full budget and share your feedback.
The 2026 budget follows Cochrane’s core financial principles, implementing a fiscal framework, planning for future generations and infrastructure lifecycle management. Together, these principles ensure sustainable, stable, and fair financial planning that keeps pace with community needs while maintaining affordability for residents.
“Each year, Cochrane’s budget reflects our community’s priorities,” said Kevin Blanchette, Acting Executive Director of Corporate Services. “This year’s budget focuses on maintaining quality services, meeting community needs and preparing for the future—while keeping the impact on residents modest. We encourage everyone to get involved: attend a session, join the discussion, or review the draft budget online and share your feedback with Council.”
Visit cochrane.ca/budget to learn more and letstalkcochrane.ca/2026budget to share your feedback.
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