Martensville Approves 2026 Budget with Modest Tax Increase and Major Infrastructure Investments

Martensville City Council has approved the City’s 2026 Operating and Capital Budget, following final deliberations at the April 7th Regular Council Meeting. The approval comes after a provisional budget was initially passed in December, with the finalized version reflecting updated assessment values and financial projections aimed at supporting both current service levels and future growth.
The 2026 budget includes a 3.98 per cent increase to property taxes. For the average single-family home, this translates to an estimated increase of $95.17 annually, or approximately $7.93 per month. The increase is expected to generate roughly $398,000 in additional revenue for the City.
Overall operating revenues are projected at $26.0 million, representing a $1.1 million increase from the previous year, while operating expenditures are expected to reach $21.3 million, up $1.4 million. City officials note that these increases reflect rising costs, growing service demands, and targeted investments across multiple departments.
The operating surplus will be reinvested into the community through capital projects, debt repayment, and reserve transfers. The budget also includes investments in staffing and service enhancements, including approximately $150,900 allocated for new positions and expanded standby coverage for both the Fire Department and Roadways operations. Additional funding has been set aside for fleet management, including a $200,000 annual commitment toward vehicle leasing and system improvements.
A significant component of the budget is the five-year Capital Improvement Plan, covering 2026 through 2030. For 2026 alone, more than $35.2 million has been allocated toward capital projects. Key initiatives include roadway expansion along Centennial Drive North, upgrades to the RCMP building, and major water and wastewater infrastructure improvements. Additional funding will support repairs and upgrades to municipal facilities and parks.
Mayor Kent Muench said the budget reflects a careful balance between maintaining affordability for residents and investing in the community’s future. “This budget reflects Council’s commitment to balancing affordability with the need to invest in our community,” said Muench. “We’ve taken a thoughtful approach to ensure investments are targeted, services are maintained, and we’re planning responsibly for Martensville’s continued growth.”
The budget outlines revenue streams from property taxes, grants, and service fees, alongside detailed departmental expenditures for areas such as policing, fire services, transportation, and recreation. It also highlights ongoing investments in infrastructure, equipment, and community services, while planning for a mix of operational surpluses and strategic capital spending.
Administration will continue to monitor financial performance throughout the year and provide quarterly updates to Council.
The full budget is available at https://www.martensville.ca/pages/budgets__finances.html.