The City of Regina’s preliminary utility budget for 2027 is forecasting a rate hike of 10 per cent to cover nearly $20 million in additional expenses above 2026, according to its latest report. It comes as council meets Tuesday for its final look at preliminary forecasts for December’s budget deliberations. According to administration, the forecasted 2027 Utility Operating Budget is $233.2 million, representing a $19.9 million increase over 2026. To cover the increase, the city projects a 10.02 per cent utility rate increase to maintain current services and to fund capital investments. “As Regina’s population continues to grow, so does the demand for Buffalo Pound Lake and the Buffalo Pound Water Treatment Plant,” administration’s report said. “Since we have a finite supply of water, we need to use it wisely to ensure we have enough to meet our future water needs.” This forecast is in addition to the city’s desired 5.81 per cent mill rate increase as well as potential service enhancements, which, if approved, could total an additional 2.34 per cent tax increase. Administration provided a breakdown of the forecasted rate increase. Six per cent of the hike will support the maintenance of its current service levels. 1.82 per cent will fund the Industrial Development Charge Reduction Reserve and Intensification Infrastructure Reserve. The remaining 2.2 per cent is slated for debt payments related to the NorthWest Regional Lift Station and Westerra Lift Station. “If departments within enabling services are reduced in staff or other resources to maintain the facilities or systems that support the utility services, all areas of the city’s operations would be impacted,” administration said. “Delays due to outdated systems or uncomfortable workspaces utility services rely on other city services for can negatively reflect on the delivery of those water, wastewater, storm water management and flood prevention services.” In addition to ongoing operational needs, the city is outlining its latest five-year utility capital plan. It shows planned investments of $153.07 million in 2027 and $653.29 million between the years 2028-2031. Areas of investment include city infrastructure, technology enhancements, as well as water, wastewater and stormwater improvements and operational requests. Administration’s report highlighted 13 new projects it is launching over the five-year period of the capital plan. Most will receive funding over multiple years to spread out costs. Council is scheduled to meet at 1 p.m. Tuesday. Decisions made Tuesday are not final and will be back in front of councillors when they meet for final budget deliberations in December. Those discussions are scheduled to take place over five full days between Dec. 7-11. More to come ...
