By Todayville.com Staff
Alberta’s Minister of Finance Joe Ceci stopped in Red Deer on Tuesday, January 17th. His visit was part of the Government’s Budget Consultation process where numerous community and business leaders were invited to offer their input in advance of the upcoming Provincial Budget which is due for release this Spring.
Local invitees represented a broad spectrum of various interests, including RDC President Joel Ward, Red Deer and District Food Bank Executive Director Fred Scaife and 2019 Canada Winter Games CEO Scott Robinson. Others included officials with the Red Deer and District Chamber of Commerce, Golden Circle, Piper Creek Lodge, Central Alberta Council on Aging and Safe Harbour Society among others. Red Deer North MLA Kim Schreiner and Red Deer South MLA Barb Miller were also on hand for the meeting.
RDC President Joel Ward: https://vimeo.com/199899029
Iaian Park, Executive Director, Red Deer Regional Health Foundation: https://vimeo.com/199898929
Bob Bilton – Bilton Welding and Manufacturing: https://vimeo.com/199898862
https://vimeo.com/199900430
Provincial officials point out there are a number of things to consider heading into this year’s Budget, including:
- Low global oil prices continue to have a profound impact on Alberta’s finances. The deficit is projected at $10.8 billion for 2016-17.
- Revenue from the carbon levy is forecast to be $248 million for 2016-17 and the carbon levy rebate program is expected to provide $95 million back to Alberta households in 2016-17 and $435 million in 2017-18.
- The 2016-17 Capital Plan is forecast to be $8.4 billion.
- Government officials consulted with private sector economists to discuss their thoughts on Alberta’s economy as part of the budget consultation process.
- Alberta has the second-lowest small business tax rate, no provincial payroll tax, no sales tax and no health-care premium.
- Alberta’s population is approximately 4.2 million and continues to expand with record-setting international immigration and natural increase.
Albertans will also have an opportunity to speak with Premier Rachel Notley and Minister Ceci in two telephone town halls on January 30th and 31st. Individuals with home lines will be dialed directly, while those with cell phones can sign up for a call. Details will be released closer to the event dates.
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