Regina Proposes 5.81% Property Tax Increase for 2027

The City of Regina has proposed a 2027 budget that includes a 5.81% property tax increase and a 10.27% hike in utility rates. For the average household, these changes, combined with costs for library operations and the Central Library Renewal Project, will result in an annual increase of $435.48.

Acting City Manager Jim Nicol attributed the rising costs to the impact of tariffs and a critical need for infrastructure catch-up. He noted that the city has not invested sufficiently in infrastructure over many years and must now address failing pipes and water services. To maintain the 5.81% tax ceiling, the administration proposed $1.4 million in service reductions, specifically targeting line painting and dust suppression.

The budget outlines $263 million in capital spending, with $122 million earmarked for a new indoor aquatic facility. Additionally, the Regina Police Service requested nearly $125 million to cover staff salaries and essential operations. The proposal also allocates $10.8 million to the Regina Exhibition Association Ltd. while negotiations continue regarding the purchase of the REAL District by Groupe Brandt.

Regina City Council will begin budget deliberations on December 7 to determine if they will accept the proposal, implement further cuts, or add service enhancements.