Calgary proposes 15% property-tax increase for 2027

Calgary’s proposed 2027-2030 budget would raise property-tax revenue by 15% in 2027, followed by further increases over three years, while directing billions of dollars toward infrastructure. City Council can amend the plan before its expected approval in December.

The proposed tax increases are 10% in 2028, 7.7% in 2029 and 6% in 2030. The City estimates that in 2027 a typical residential property would face $37 more per month in property tax and $16 more in water, waste and recycling charges, for a combined increase of $53. Actual bills would vary with property assessments and service use, according to the City.

The budget recommends $21 billion in capital spending over four years, including $13 billion for new infrastructure, and sets a $6 billion operating budget for 2027. Major proposed capital allocations include $1.7 billion for upgrades to the Pine Creek and Fish Creek wastewater treatment plants, $420 million for road rehabilitation and $300 million for additional buses.

The Calgary Police Service would receive its full $3.3 billion funding request under the proposal, according to the City budget reporting. The plan includes a net addition of 309 officers and 215...