Town of Banff 2026 Budget & Service Review
A Strong Outcome for Our Community
We’re pleased to share that the Town of Banff 2026–2028 Budget has now been approved, concluding this year’s Service Review and budget process with outcomes that strongly reflect the priorities and solutions advanced by the BLLHA, our members and partners.
This process began with a projected municipal tax increase of 8.48% and concluded with a final approved increase of 2.97%.
This outcome reflects months of constructive dialogue, collaboration, and a shared focus on affordability, transparency, and long-term sustainability.
2026 Tax Impact
How the Process Evolved
This chart tells the story of the budget journey, one that required persistence, evidence-based advocacy, and a willingness by Council to work through tough decisions in the interest of the broader community.
Key Wins Aligned with BLLHA's Budget Solutions Framework
Throughout the process, BLLHA consistently advanced a solutions-based framework focused on outcomes rather than demands. We’re encouraged to see several of those priorities reflected in the final budget:
✔ A Responsible Tax Outcome
Anchoring decisions in affordability, cost-of-living realities, and fiscal discipline resulted in a final tax increase of 2.97%, protecting both residents and businesses.
✔ Fenlands Future – A New Partnership Approach
Council approved a co-funded operational review of the Fenlands Banff Recreation Centre, to be undertaken in partnership with the business community. This is a meaningful step toward ensuring one of Banff’s most important community assets delivers maximum value for residents while remaining financially sustainable.
✔ Visitor Revenues Supporting Visitor Services
Visitor Paid Parking (VPP) revenues are being used more strategically, including fully covering the Roam Transit requisition, reducing pressure on the municipal tax base while ensuring visitor services are appropriately funded.
Thank you
We want to sincerely thank:
- Our members and partners, for sharing perspectives, data, and their experience throughout the process
- Our Board and Advisory Committee, for their guidance and strategic input
- Mayor DiManno and Members of Council, for their openness, thoughtful questions, and willingness to engage in collaborative problem-solving
This outcome demonstrates what’s possible when the Town, community, and business sector work together with shared intent.
What’s Next
While Service Review is now complete, our work continues in 2026, including:
- Advancing performance and productivity metrics to strengthen transparency and continuous improvement in this and future budgets
- Supporting implementation work on moving people sustainably, including advocating for a business seat at the table
- Continuing to contribute constructively to conversations that balance community wellbeing, economic vitality, and environmental stewardship
As always, we welcome your feedback on our process and outcomes. Please feel free to reach out to me directly anytime at mike@bllha.ca.
Rooted in Place. Rising Together.
Sincerely,
Mike Kelly, Executive Director, BLLHA