County of Wetaskiwin, AB – On May 5, 2026, the Council of the County of Wetaskiwin No. 10 approved the 2026 tax rate, supporting a balanced budget focused on sustainable growth, core services, infrastructure, and community well-being. The 2026 budget includes a $28 million tax-supported operating budget to maintain essential services residents rely on each day, as well as a $14 million capital budget to support infrastructure, facilities, and long-term asset management. 

This year, the average residential ratepayer will see a 3% increase in the municipal portion of their property taxes, representing approximately $66 per year. This funding supports County operations and services such as roads, emergency services, infrastructure, and day-to-day municipal operations. 

Residents will also see increases related to provincially requisitioned and regulated costs, including the Provincial Education Tax, RCMP policing costs, and the Wetaskiwin & Area Lodge Authority (WALA). Combined, the total municipal and provincial property tax increase for the average residential property in 2026 is 6.99% or $154 a year increase.

The education portion of your property taxes is determined by the Government of Alberta, not the County of Wetaskiwin, and represents approximately 42% of the total residential property tax bill. These funds are collected by the County on behalf of the Government of Alberta and transferred directly to support Alberta’s education system. The County has no authority to adjust, reduce, or retain these funds. Residents with questions or concerns regarding the Provincial Education Tax are encouraged to contact their local MLA.

“Council has set a budget that will invest in a stronger financial future. Over time, our goal is to become self-sufficient and less reliant on grant programs from other levels of government” said Reeve Josh Bishop. “Through business-friendly policies and strategic investments, the assessment base will grow and generate new revenue to help share the financial responsibilities. Over the next few years, we will continue to see compounding pressures on the Education requisition as well as the RCMP requisition. On the municipal side, the bridge program will require substantial increases in investment as replacements will be required due to the age of the portfolio. Council remains committed to ensuring the financial viability of the County well into the future."

Your annual property tax notice includes more than just municipal taxes. It also covers:

• The provincial education tax,
• RCMP policing costs,
• A contribution to the Wetaskiwin and Area Lodge Authority, which supports affordable housing for seniors in our region.

In accordance with Section 311 of the Municipal Government Act, please be informed that the Assessment Notices for the County will be mailed by May 22, 2026. Following this notification, all assessed individuals are considered to have received their Assessment Notices. Ratepayers who wish to discuss their assessments in more detail are encouraged to contact the Assessment Department at (780) 361-6237.

Please notify the County of Wetaskiwin No. 10 if you have not received your notice within a reasonable time frame.

Tax payments for the year are due by August 31, 2026. For detailed information on payment methods and instructions, please visit the County of Wetaskiwin's official website at www.county.wetaskiwin.ab.ca/277/How-do-I-pay-my-taxes