The town collected nearly $4 million in off-site levies and with the jump in fees finalized in late May even more funds will be funneled to the town for infrastructure projects.

In the annual off-site levies report to town council, Paige Milner, senior manager of corporate services, reported the town collected a total of $3,956,850 for development in the community. Of that, $1,210,134 was the final 50 per cent owning from 2016 levies and $2,746,716 was from 2017.

In total, $5,478,776 in off-site levies were imposed in 2017 for approximately 31 hectares and 707 residential units. Half was required to be paid upfront and the remaining $2,732,060 will be due this year.

As of Dec.31, 2017, the town had $17,168,367 in funds toward future off-site levy projects, broken into several categories. They also expect off-site levy expenditures of $21,553,500, $15 million of which is going towards the new Bow River bridge and north arterial road. There are not enough funds in the transportation off-site levy fund and debenture borrowing will be required, as anticipated.

Higher off-site levies have kicked in. Approved in late May, the rates are 27 per cent higher or about $50,000 per hectare more. Off-site levies now range from $220,960 to $254,477 per hectares, up from the current $170,896 to $201,262. It's broken into seven infrastructure categories that largely centres upon water/wastewater needs and transportation. The door has also been left open to consider applying off-site levies for recreation facilities and fire stations because of changes to the Municipal Government Act.

The town anticipates over $200 million in capital projects due to growth over the next 20 years. With this increase, an estimated  $140 million of the cost will be borne by off-site levies.

Voluntary levies

The town also collects what they label voluntary contributions from developers to enhance recreation, parks and culture.

At the end of 2017, there were no funds remaining from collected community enhancement fees that were largely expended on the construction of the aquatic centre and curling multisport expansion at the SLS Family Sports Centre.

There was a balance of $847,122.34 from parks development fee at the end of 2017. Of that, $425,000 has been committed towards the new off-leash dog park and pickleball courts.