This release was issued under a previous government.

Budget 2017 consultations

Finance Minister Joe Ceci and Nicole Goehring, MLA, Edmonton-Castle Downs

Over the next few weeks, Albertans are encouraged to provide their comments and suggestions as government prepares for Budget 2017.

Minister of Finance Joe Ceci will host meetings with community leaders and the public while visiting towns and cities around the province.

Dates and locations

  • Jan. 9 - Edmonton
  • Jan. 10 - Stony Plain
  • Jan. 11 - Vegreville
  • Jan. 16 - Grande Prairie and Fairview
  • Jan. 17 - Red Deer
  • Jan. 18 - Redwater
  • Jan. 20 - Calgary
  • Jan. 23 - Medicine Hat
  • Jan. 30 & 31 – telephone town halls

“We saw some promising signs of economic stability leading into the new year, but there is still a lot of work to do as we prepare for the next budget. These are still challenging economic times and I would like to hear from Albertans about their priorities and ideas on how to best meet their needs without increasing costs or affecting front-line services.”

Joe Ceci, Minister of Finance

Other ways to provide feedback

  • Submit your suggestions online
  • Participate in a telephone town hall
    • Northern Alberta – Jan. 30
    • Southern Alberta – Jan. 31

An online submission page will collect feedback until Feb. 3.

Albertans will also have an opportunity to speak with Premier Rachel Notley and Minister Ceci in the two telephone town halls. Individuals with home lines will be dialled directly while those with cellular phones can sign up for a call. Details will be released closer to the event dates.

Budget consultations backgrounder

  • 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.

Listen to the news conference