The Town of Nanton’s property taxes are increasing by 5.6. per cent this year.
As property tax bills will soon be mailed to residents, Nanton’s Town Council released a letter on social media breaking down how the additional revenue will be used.
“Let’s be honest, no one likes paying taxes. But property taxes are what help keep our town running,” the letter said. “They’re not just a bill; they’re your contribution to making Nanton a safe, livable, and well-maintained town that we can all be proud of.”
The town’s main priorities include water, wastewater, roads, waste collection services, and system maintenance.
“To do this, we plan carefully and try to balance what’s affordable for our residents with what the town actually needs now and, in the future,” the letter said. “Your taxes help keep the roads clear, the water clean, the arena open, and our parks in good shape.”
A 5.6 per cent property tax increase is equivalent to about $186 more for the average single-family home.
Here’s the breakdown:
-
Town increase - $26
-
Provincial education tax – $150
-
Seniors Foundation requisition - $10
“Living in a small town like Nanton means a smaller population is sharing the cost of major infrastructure, which can make property taxes higher than in big cities,” the letter said. “What you gain in return is something money can’t buy: larger lots, quieter nights under dark skies, safer neighbourhoods, and a genuine sense of community and belonging.”
Throughout the budget process, the town cut sludge hauling costs, increased utility fees based on usage, increased enforcement revenues, and earned more interest from investments.
However, there are some unavoidable costs, such as employee wages and contract adjustments, election year costs and councillor orientation, councillor health benefit plans, capital reserves for future projects, inflation, and preparing for tariff increases.
For an average home paying $3,452 a year, tax money will go towards:
-
Municipal Services - $2,298
-
School - $846
-
RCMP - $107
-
Library and Social Services - $87
-
Seniors’ Housing - $114
“We’re committed to being transparent, careful with your money, and focused on quality services,” the letter said. “We live here too, and we’re always working to improve how local tax dollars are used.”