YORKTON — Yorkton city council has approved its proposed 2026 budget following public consultation, drawing overall support from the Yorkton Chamber of Commerce while also prompting criticism over one specific spending item.
In a submission provided to the city during the consultation process, the chamber said it supports both the operating and capital components of the 2026 budget.
The organization said council’s focus on building and enhancing infrastructure is a positive step for the community.
The chamber highlighted funding earmarked for an ice cover system at the Gallagher Centre as a strong investment. The roughly $300,000 project was described as an opportunity to attract concerts and other large-scale events, which the chamber said could contribute to broader economic development.
Long-term infrastructure needs were also flagged as a priority. The chamber noted that a new wastewater treatment plant will be essential to support future growth and development in the city.
However, the chamber took issue with funding allocated for gym equipment at the City Operations Centre. While the $25,000 item represents a small portion of the overall budget, the chamber described it as difficult to justify, given the number of privately operated fitness centres in Yorkton that pay property taxes and employ local residents.
The chamber said it struggles to understand why the city operates a gym at the operations centre and why public funds would be used to purchase new equipment for it.
