Clearwater County council has passed its 2025 Tax Rate Bylaw, holding municipal tax rates steady for all assessment classes despite rising inflation and growing infrastructure demands.
Council approved the bylaw on April 22 with a zero per cent tax rate increase, aiming to support residents and businesses in what officials describe as a challenging economic climate.
While a change in assessment base showed increased tax revenue over 2024, council cautiously considered rising inflationary pressures, as well as an an ever-growing list of capital projects.
–
RELATED
–
“Clearwater County council is committed to managing finances responsibly,” said Clearwater County Reeve Michelle Swanson. “Although a tax rate increase would be warranted with an ever-growing list of capital projects and inflationary challenges, council overall favoured a zero per cent tax rate increase, noting how the challenging economic climate is already a burden on ratepayers.”
While the municipal rate remains unchanged, residents will see three separate tax requisitions on their 2025 property tax notices.
The provincial school tax requisition has climbed 12 per cent to $21.6 million, driven by a rise in equalized assessments and a provincial tax rate hike. The Seniors Foundation requisition has also increased, totaling just over $1.3 million, although its tax rate decreased due to higher non-residential assessment.
–
RELATED
–
Clearwater County will also collect nearly $481,000 in Designated Industrial Property tax on behalf of the province, reflecting a decreased requisition rate.
Property tax notices are set to be mailed out in mid-May, with payment due upon receipt. Late payments will incur penalties starting Sept. 19, with additional deadlines in December and April 2026.
To learn more, click here.
Comments