Input sought on future budgets, still waiting to see this year's bill

Even before ratepayers learn the financial impact of their 2025 tax bills, the town is beginning to gather input on its 2026–28 budget.

Each year, the town surveys taxpayers to better understand the community’s desired level of services and to ensure departmental business plans and budgets reflect those expectations before getting too far into the budgeting process.

An online survey was launched today on the town’s Let’s Talk Cochrane webpage and will remain open until May 7.

The town has expanded its outreach efforts to encourage participation. Soon, residents will receive a letter in the mail with a QR code and phone number inviting them to take part in the survey. The town advises that some residents may be contacted directly by phone to ensure everyone has a chance to participate.

The survey lists Cochrane’s departments and asks respondents whether they believe service levels should increase, decrease, or stay the same.

Additionally, town administration will host two focus groups—one in the spring and another in the fall.

A draft of the three-year budget will be presented to council in the fall. The budget is typically debated in November and finalized in December.

Tax bills, which include both municipal and education taxes, are usually mailed out around May 30 and are due at the end of June.