Budget

Developing a budget is a year-round process.  Administration prepares a budget to cover the next year’s anticipated operating and capital costs based on priorities identified by Council . This budget is then reviewed by Clearwater County Council during meetings that run over multiple days (Strategic Planning Council Committee of the Whole meetings - or budget deliberations).  

What is an operating budget?

The operating budget shows the day-to-day costs of delivering programs and services for the next year. These costs are similar to your everyday household expenses such as mortgage payments, utilities or groceries.

The operations budget is prepared to a four-year outlook, but reviewed and approved yearly. 

What is a capital budget?

The capital budget indicates the funds needed for a specific year of the 10-year capital planning period. It is how major projects are funded such as bridge rehabilitation and construction; building and improving public facilities such as recreation facilities (Rocky Regional Recreation Centre), community centres/halls, fire halls and equipment; dealing with growth pressures such as new roads; and new initiatives. These costs are similar to adding an addition to your home this year.

The capital budget is prepared to a 10-year outlook, but reviewed and approved yearly.

2025 Budget

Clearwater County Council budget deliberations are scheduled for December 11-13, 2024.

Past Budget News Releases

Audited Financial Statements

The Annual Financial Report provides an overview of Clearwater County's financial position and financial activities for a particular year. The report includes the consolidated financial statements for Clearwater County, prepared in accordance with the standards established by the Public Sector Accounting Board of the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants, and audited by independent external auditors. The financial statements and auditors’ report satisfy a legislative reporting requirement as set out in the Municipal Government Act of Alberta.

Click on the links below to view past audited financial statements.