The County of Grande Prairie has approved a $109.6 million dollar budget for 2016, with a deficit of nearly $900,000. It includes $71.5 million for operating costs, and $38.1 million for capital project, almost three-quarters of which is set aside for road construction.
Reeve Leanne Beaupre says that with the uncertain economy, making the budget both “responsible and responsive” was a challenge, but council found some cost-saving measures. They include a freeze on hiring, other than an Enhance RCMP Officer. Employee and council training and travel spending will also be cut by 10 per cent.
The County will start looking at its 2017 budget next week, along with the 2016 tax rate.