According to the audited 2025 Financial Statement, the Town of Drayton Valley finished 2025 with an operating surplus of $3.3 million.
Revenues in 2025 reached $31.8 million, surpassing the $31.0 million anticipated in the budget. Expenses also came in slightly lower than expected at $28.5 million; Budget 2025 estimated $28.6 million.
Revenues from sales and user charges were lower than budgeted, while government transfers for operating, rentals, investment income and donation revenues were greater than anticipated. At the same time, expenses for policing, fire and disaster services and roads, streets, walks and lighting also increased compared to the 2025 budget.
Some of these expense increases were attributed to a wildfire recovery project and higher snow-clearing demands.
When amortization is considered, the town finished the year with a higher surplus than the $2.4 million originally projected.
The surplus will be allocated to the following reserves:
- Tax Stabilization Reserve (30 per cent): Holds funds meant to stabilize fluctuations in municipal tax revenue, such as revenue shortfalls or unforeseen expenses.
- General Capital Reserve (30 per cent): Sets aside funds for acquiring, replacing or improving long-term assets, such as buildings, infrastructure or equipment.
- Fire Capital Reserve (10 per cent): Holds funds to purchase, replace or upgrade fire vehicles, equipment and related infrastructure.
- Unrestricted Surplus (30 per cent): Offsets potential future deficits.
Comments