RMWB to Deliberate $645 Million 2025 Budget with Focus on Streamlining and Efficiency

FORT MCMURRAY, Alberta— The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo (RMWB) is set to begin its 2025 budget deliberations, with council meetings scheduled for December 3 and 4 starting at 9 a.m. The proposed budget includes $645.6 million in spending for the upcoming year, focusing on efficient service delivery and minimal new investments.

Laurie Farquharson, Chief Financial Officer for the RMWB, highlighted the streamlined approach, stating that the proposed budget reflects a shift toward meeting core service needs while acknowledging economic realities and rising costs. “Our economic reality is much different than it was a few years ago,” Farquharson noted, as the RMWB seeks to balance local needs with inflation and increased material and supply costs across Alberta and Canada.

Of the proposed budget, just over $476.2 million — approximately 73 per cent — is allocated for operations, with $166.3 million, roughly 26 per cent,, earmarked for capital projects.

This year’s budget process will also see a shift in presentation: Farquharson will lead the presentation of the operating budget, including grant requests, while divisional directors will present capital budgets specific to their areas.

The public is encouraged to attend the meetings in person or tune in online through the RMWB website.