Lethbridge council's cost-cutting for 2027 would impact waste services, transit

Lethbridge City Council is moving towards a more modest tax increase for 2027, proposing a 2.67% rise in the municipal portion of property taxes. This figure is a significant reduction from the 5.1% annual increases residents have faced over the past four years. The plan for 2027 is a single-year operating budget, after which the city will revert to a four-year rotation.

Mayor Blaine Hyggen expressed relief, stating, "To come back down to close to half of what it was last year is welcoming." Much of the council's deliberation focused on slashing funding and cutting costs to achieve this lower tax hike. "We’re trying to do the best we possibly can and trying to keep as many services within the community," Hyggen added.

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To come back down to close to half of what it was last year is welcoming.

However, these cost-saving measures come with service level reductions. One of the most notable changes is the elimination of free Saturday drop-offs at the Waste and Recycling Centre, a move estimated to save the city $258,750. Additionally, utility bills will increase by $2.00 per month for customers receiving paper invoices, potentially generating $400,000.

The transit department will also see significant adjustments. Bus routes 51, 52, 53, and 62, which serve the University of Lethbridge and Lethbridge Polytechnic, are slated for reductions during the slower summer months. These changes are projected to save over $240,000, with the city citing the high per-passenger cost on these routes due to limited ridership.

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We’re trying to do the best we possibly can and trying to keep as many services within the community.