Budget deliberations at the City of Prince Albert have concluded, and an $8.08 million increase to be funded through property taxes is in store.

The total approved capital and operating budget is $83 million, with a key focus on spending in the policing, fire, transit, and capital investments.

For example, there will be a $2.3 million increase to the policing budget for a total of $21.41 million.

In addition, the new Lake Country Co-Op Leisure Centre has received an increase of $610,000 to operate, which will start up in the spring of 2025.

After three days of budget discussions, the City is still unsure of how to proceed with operations at the Steuart Arena. A release from the City says “At this time, the Steuart Arena will not operate following the 2025 winter/spring season however the City will continue to evaluate options for the future of the arena. No decisions have been made that will immediately rule out its future use as an artificial ice surface.”