Thompson Council Approves Vale Tax Deal Extension and 2026 Budget Estimates on Dec 8 - AI Generated Image
Thompson City Council voted to extend the tax agreement with Vale Canada Limited and approved provisional budget estimates for 2026 during their regular meeting on December 8.
A significant financial decision involved the approval of a one-year extension to the “Letter of Understanding” with Vale Canada Limited. The agreement, which governs municipal tax and funding arrangements, will now be effective starting January 1, 2026. Council noted that the extension addresses an anticipated business restructuring at the mining company.
Council also adopted the 2026 Provisional Estimates to ensure city operations continue smoothly into the new year. These estimates allow for operating and capital expenditures based on five-twelfths of the previous year’s budget until the final financial plan is passed.
In other financial business, resolutions were passed to adjust the tax roll. The city approved adding $104,844.76 to the 2024 and 2025 real property tax roll, while cancelling taxes amounting to $21,581.22.
Local non-profits will see a change in how they receive funding. The council authorized provisional contribution agreements for 2026 with the Thompson Public Library, Thompson Recycling Centre, and Boreal Discovery Centre. A new payment structure was approved to provide these entities with half of their contribution on January 1 to assist with cash flow.
On the development front, a minor subdivision application was approved for property registered to Hillcrest Car Wash Limited and Northern HomeComfort Limited. Council also held the first reading of Bylaw 2059-2025 to adopt the Pusiko Secondary Plan, a step described as crucial for future development and securing funding for the KTC subdivision project.
The meeting also saw the adoption of the city’s 2026 Emergency Plan for submission to the Manitoba Emergency Measures Organization, as well as the approval of the council meeting schedule for the upcoming year.
Residents can view the full recording of the meeting online through the City of Thompson website or social media channels.
Emma specializes in municipal politics, community development, and the social issues shaping Thompson. She is dedicated to transparent, balanced reporting that keeps the community informed.
Contact her at emma@thethompsonnews.ca.
