Budget

Clearwater County's budget supports the programs, services, infrastructure, and facilities that residents and businesses rely on every day.

Developing a budget is a year-round process. Administration prepares operating and capital budget plans based on Council priorities, community needs, legislative requirements, and available funding. Council reviews these plans during annual budget deliberations and approves the budget each year.

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.


2027 Budget Engagement

Take a short survey, test your budget knowledge, and help Council understand what matters most to residents and businesses.

Click here to learn more and complete the 2027 Budget Survey (open until October 31, 2026).


2026 Budget


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.


Be Prepared!
Be Prepared!