(file photo/meadowlakeNOW staff)

By Kenneth Cheung

MUNICIPAL MATTERS

$1.77M revenue surge in Q3 puts Meadow Lake on track for stronger surplus

Nov 19, 2025 | 2:03 PM

Meadow Lake is bringing in significantly more money this year than it did last year, driven mostly by strong investment returns, higher property taxes and new recreation revenue, according to the city’s latest financial update.

A third-quarter report shows the city has collected $1.77 million more in revenue in 2025 than at the same point in 2024.

The largest boost came from $840,000 in interest income earned on the city’s investments. Property tax levies added another $300,000, while a $76,000 lot sale to the Meadow Lake Tribal Council and rising fire service fees also contributed.

Recreation revenue grew by $154,000, helped by the opening of the city’s three new facilities — the arena, Legacy Hall and the fieldhouse (all located inside the Co-op centre) — along with increased grant funding and leasing revenue. Water and sewer revenues were also up $151,000 due to rate adjustments.

While revenues are climbing, the report warns the city’s expenses appear artificially low for now.

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Spending is showing a $1.4-million decrease compared to last year, but the city says that number doesn’t reflect reality because Meadow Lake uses cash accounting, which only records expenses once bills are paid. Several large bills — including SaskWater charges and Community Policing Enhancement costs for multiple quarters — were still outstanding at the end of September.

Once those payments are processed, total expenses for 2025 will rise.

Even with late invoices still to come, the city is projecting a stronger financial position than it originally budgeted. Revenues are forecast to finish $1.33 million above budget, while expenses are expected to be roughly $593,000 higher, leaving the city with a projected $744,000 improvement to its operating surplus.

Capital spending remains a major pressure point. The city budgeted $3.63 million for capital work this year but has recorded $13.55 million in spending so far. Nearly all of that difference comes from $12.7 million in Co-op Centre construction costs, which continue to flow as the multi-year project advances.

To make those payments, the city has withdrawn all of its Community Enhancement and Long-Term investment reserves and is now seeking an increase to its debt limit so those reserves can be replenished. As of June 30, the city held $413,978 in short-term investments, while long-term balances have not changed since March.

The report notes that costs tied to federally funded water and sewer upgrades are expected to begin flowing in as of October.

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Kenneth.Cheung@pattisonmedia.com