Lloydminster was paying close attention as the Sask Party unveiled its 2025-26 budget. The results, however, left much to be desired.
Read more: 2025 Sask. budget delivered in Regina
Some takeaways from the budget, which was released on March, 19, include an increase in municipal revenue sharing. The increase sees the fund reach $362 million, an increase of $22 million or 6.3 per cent.
“We saw the increase in municipal revenue sharing, which is proportionate based on the Saskatchewan side of the city and the formula they use,” said Lloydminster Mayor Gerald Aalbers.
Another win from the budget for the border city includes the widening of Highway 17 heading north.
“The road work on (Highway) 17 is a welcome addition,” said Aalbers. “We’re going to see an improvement to Highway 17 north of the city with passing lanes.”
Aalbers says the passing lanes will benefit residents who live or work out in that area.
“We know there’s a lot of lakes north of town and people travelling that way. It improves the road conditions for Onion Lake, the community that supports our community each day,” he said.
With the two items directly impacting the city, the rest of the budget left something to be desired.
“From a perspective of a budget, there is nothing earth-shattering that way,” said Aalbers.
Work will now continue for officials to advocate for the betterment of Lloydminster.
“We just need to continue to work on the health care, education and long-term care,” he said.
Aalbers also says work will continue to advocate for additional resources at the Saskatchewan Provincial Court in Lloydminster.
“To bring the case forward for additional resources at the courthouse. Be it crown prosecutors and public defenders right here in Lloydminster,” he said.
Other key areas will be top of mind as they continue to inform officials of what the city needs.
“Increased policing support, to homelessness and addiction support, our advocacy work will continue with community partners,” he said.
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