The Town of Hinton delivers services that support resident's quality of life. These include safe drinking water, fire protection, public transportation, snow removal, sewage services, waste management, and maintenance of parks and green spaces. Read more about the division of responsibilities between Municipal, Provincial and Federal Government here.

To pay for these services, the Town relies on money from the following:

• Municipal property taxes
• User fees (permit fees, recreation and transit passes, equipment rentals)
• Provincial and federal government funds (allocated and competitive grants)
• Cost-sharing agreements with regional municipalities such as Yellowhead County.

How is the Town's Annual Budget Decided?

Every autumn, Council approves the Town of Hinton’s budget for the following year. There are two parts to the budget: Operating and Capital.

The Operating Budget summarizes what the Town will spend on programs and services and where the money will come from.

The Capital Budget outlines the Town’s plan for funding infrastructure that supports the delivery of programs and services, like water pipes, snow plows, fire trucks, vehicles, roads, and buildings.

The Municipal Government Act requires Council to pass the 2027 budget before December 31, 2026.

In September and October, Administration (Town of Hinton CAO and staff) prepare reports for Council that describe projects proposed for 2027.

Mayor and Council review the reports (and associated budgets) prior to budget-specific workshops in November. Then they discuss projects and budgets in Committee of the Whole and Regular Council Meetings in November and December.

Finally, Mayor and Council approve the Operating and Capital Budgets, usually in early to mid-December.

How Can Residents Share Their Views?

Residents can share their views by clicking the 'View Discussion' link at the bottom of this page.

The proposed 2027 Operating and Capital Budgets and projects will be available in a Council meeting agenda package online in early November.

Residents can attend Council and Committee meetings either in person at the Government Centre, 131 Civic Centre Road, Hinton or by watching meetings on the Town of Hinton YouTube channel. Meetings are held on Tuesdays at 4 p.m.

The Mayor and Councillors are always available by phone or email to discuss your views and priorities.

Funding for External Agencies

As part of budget deliberations, Mayor and Council decide how much money regional organizations (primarily non-profit organizations) will receive in 2027. These organizations are an integral part of the community and complement municipal services.

What Happens After the Budget is Decided?

• A public report summarizing the projects and budgets will be available in early 2027.
• In spring 2027, the property tax rate will be set for the year, with tax notices issued by the end of May.
• Operating and capital projects will then be undertaken by Administration in 2027 as per Council's budgetary decisions.