ESTEVAN — The City of Estevan's 2025 budget was adopted following a period of public consultations and discussions during the Feb. 24 council meeting. The updated budget incorporates amendments based on resident input, with adjustments to infrastructure and community engagement efforts.
The budget was posted online for public review on Jan. 16, with the city partnering with the Estevan Chamber of Commerce to encourage feedback from residents. To enhance public participation, the city hosted two open houses on Feb. 2 and Feb. 6 at the Â鶹´«Ã½AVeast TechHub with about 15 people attending in total. Additional feedback was gathered through a survey conducted by the chamber of commerce.
Two primary amendments were made to the budget as a direct result of public feedback. One involved paving a small section of the pathway in front of the curling rink, costing approximately $7,500. This project will connect the Dennis Moore Centennial Park to the curling rink parking lot, addressing accessibility concerns.
The second amendment relates to the replacement of the digital sign at Affinity Place, which is used to advertise community events. The total cost of the new display is estimated at $58,000, with $10,000 offset by reductions in traditional marketing expenses such as print media, radio advertising, etc. Council agreed that maintaining a digital presence for city events remains a priority.
Another point discussed was fire department additional staffing for increased response time and completion of fire inspections at $40,000–$50,000, which was tabled at this time.
A proposed two per cent increase to the municipal portion of property tax was approved as well. It is expected to generate $320,000.
The city made a concerted effort to enhance transparency and accessibility in the budget process. For the first time, council members held public meetings where residents could engage directly with decision-makers. Additionally, adjustments were made to the budget document, including clearer tax revenue reporting, the removal of redundant zero-value entries, the inclusion of the Estevan Police Service quarterly report outlining department revenues and expenditures to enhance transparency, and more.
A full summary of revisions and the budget can be found on the under Feb. 24, 2025, council meeting agenda.
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Estevan Comprehensive School Elecs' Cheerleading team was recognized at the meeting following their first-place finish at the Best of the West competition earlier this month. Despite having a young and small team, they delivered a flawless performance, earning the highest scholastic score in the event. Coach Bonnie Chepil-Kvamme praised the team's dedication, noting their early morning and weekend practices. Their victory has secured them a spot at provincials in Regina on March 15.
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Council has approved a bid from Paradise Pools for the design and construction of a new community swimming pool at Hillside Park. The company’s bid of $504,148.91 was selected. Paradise Pools previously built the Churchill Park pool. A pre-construction meeting and public announcement will take place before work begins. The project is expected to be completed by Aug. 31, 2025, pending weather or other delays.
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In inquiries portion of the council meeting, Coun. Shelly Veroba asked the residents to ensure their parts of sidewalks are clear of snow.
Coun. Mathew Dubowski asked drivers to be cautious when passing pedestrians and not to splash them with water, with above zero temperatures and many puddles around the community.
Council also addressed ongoing infrastructure issues, including multiple water main breaks, mostly caused by abrupt changes in weather, and praised city crews for their work.
Additionally, a reminder was given about Pink Shirt Day and the importance of anti-bullying awareness.
