RMA’s input focuses on rural funding priorities across four key themes.
The Rural Municipalities of Alberta (RMA) has submitted input to the Government of Alberta as part of the Budget 2026 consultation process. RMA continues its long‑standing commitment to ensuring that rural perspectives are reflected in provincial budget decisions. As rural municipalities carry unique responsibilities across large geographic areas and play a central role in supporting economic growth, it is essential that provincial planning incorporates a strong rural lens.
This year’s submission builds on established advocacy positions while responding to emerging challenges facing rural communities. It highlights the importance of predictable municipal funding, fair taxation frameworks, and targeted investments that reflect the realities of rural service delivery. The submission also emphasizes the need for strengthened collaboration between municipalities, industry, and the province to support sustainable growth and community resilience.
RMA’s Budget 2026 submission is organized around four themes:
- Strong and Viable Municipalities
- Rural Municipal Industrial Investment
- Rural Economic Development
- Community Support and Resilience
Each theme includes background information, budget‑related recommendations, targeted ministries, and an explanation of why these issues are critically important to rural municipalities. Together, they provide government decision‑makers with both high‑level rural priorities and clear recommendations for improving existing programs and addressing emerging pressures.
In addition to the four themes, the submission includes a focused request related to addressing the rural municipal infrastructure deficit. Reducing this deficit represents a significant opportunity to support long‑term rural growth and provincial prosperity.
Click here to view RMA’s Budget 2026 submission.
RMA is hopeful that the recommendations provided will support the Government of Alberta in developing a Budget 2026 that recognizes the essential role rural municipalities play in driving economic development and sustaining strong, resilient communities across the province.
Jared Shaigec
Policy Advisor
825.319.2312
jared@RMAlberta.com
Wyatt Skovron
General Manager of Policy & Advocacy
780.955.4096
wyatt@RMAlberta.com