Hello neighbours, and happy Halloween! As we head into November, there's a bit of news for homeowners from the Province, plus details on Remembrance Day services in both communities and a festive lineup of holiday events worth adding to your calendar.

What did Alberta announce about education property taxes?

On Oct. 30, the Government of Alberta announced that, through Budget 2027, it will introduce one standardized provincial education property tax rate that will be locked in every three years. Here are the key facts from the announcement:

• The new rate: $2.65 per $1,000 of assessment for residential and farmland properties. The non-residential rate is $3.98 per $1,000.

• When it starts: Starting in 2027, municipalities will apply the new provincial rates to assessed property values.

• Estimated savings: The Province estimates overall savings of $98.7 million in 2027-28.

• A transition credit: In communities where the new provincial rate may be higher than the current local rate, the Province will provide a one-time transition tax credit in 2027.

• How it's collected: Municipalities will continue to collect the education property tax through regular property tax bills, and it helps fund Alberta's education system.

The Province says more information on rates, detailed calculations and municipal guidance will be shared before municipalities adopt their 2027 tax bylaws. Because the new rate replaces each community's current rate, the effect on any one property tax bill will depend on the details still to come.

Leduc residents who want to share thoughts on the City's side of the budget can also do so at Leduc City Council's budget meetings on Monday, Nov. 2 and Monday, Nov. 9, starting at 5:30 p.m. Speakers need to register in advance or in person before the meeting begins.

Where can I attend a Remembrance Day service in Leduc or Beaumont?

Both communities will gather to remember on Wednesday, Nov. 11.

In Leduc, the Remembrance Day Ceremony is hosted by the Leduc Legion Branch No. 108:

• 9:45 a.m.: Cenotaph Service at the Leduc Civic Centre Cenotaph (#1 Alexandra Park)

• 10:30 a.m.: Remembrance Day Service at the Leduc Recreation Centre Fieldhouse (4330 Black Gold Drive)

Poppies are available at various locations in and around Leduc until Nov. 11, and flags at City facilities will be lowered to half-mast.

In Beaumont, this year's Remembrance Day Ceremony includes the formal dedication of Beaumont's new cenotaph at the Beaumont Sport and Recreation Centre (BSRC). A few things to know before you go:

• The ceremony will take place outdoors in the BSRC parking lot and begins promptly at 10:30 a.m.

• It will go ahead in all weather and may only be cancelled if conditions reach -25 C with wind chill, so dress warmly and be prepared to stand outdoors.

• Seating is limited, with priority for veterans, seniors and residents who use wheelchairs, walkers or other mobility devices.

• The ceremony will also be livestreamed on YouTube for those who can't attend in person.

• Residents who wish to take part in the laying of the wreaths must complete the City's wreath-laying form by Nov. 8.

What holiday events are coming up in Leduc and Beaumont?

The holiday season is almost here, and the local calendars are filling up:

• Winter Pottery Market: Saturday, Nov. 21, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Leduc Arts Foundry. The City of Leduc's listing says you'll find handmade mugs, vases, planters, teapots, home decor and more.

• Leduc Santa Claus Parade: Sunday, Nov. 22, along Main Street (50th Ave) in downtown Leduc. According to the City of Leduc, the Main Street parking ban starts at 4 p.m., and the parade starts at 6 p.m.

• Leduc Christmas Farmers Market: Saturday, Dec. 5, at the Leduc Recreation Centre, with local vendors offering handmade gifts, festive decor, baked goods and seasonal treats.

• Skate with Santa: Sunday, Dec. 6, from noon to 2 p.m. at the Ken Nichol Regional Recreation Centre in Beaumont. This free family event includes skating alongside Santa and members of the Beaumont Chiefs hockey club, plus hot chocolate.

• Silver Bells Winter Market: Friday, Dec. 11 to Sunday, Dec. 13, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the County Fieldhouse (east entrance) at the Leduc Recreation Centre. Admission is free.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Alberta's new education property tax rate?
Through Budget 2027, the Province will set one provincial rate of $2.65 per $1,000 of assessment for residential and farmland properties, locked in every three years. The non-residential rate is $3.98 per $1,000.

When does the new education property tax rate start?
Starting in 2027, municipalities will apply the new provincial rates to assessed property values. The Province says more details will be shared before municipalities adopt their 2027 tax bylaws.

What time is the Remembrance Day service in Leduc?
On Nov. 11, the Cenotaph Service at the Leduc Civic Centre Cenotaph is at 9:45 a.m., followed by the Remembrance Day Service at the Leduc Recreation Centre Fieldhouse at 10:30 a.m.

Where is Beaumont's Remembrance Day ceremony this year?
Outdoors in the Beaumont Sport and Recreation Centre parking lot, beginning promptly at 10:30 a.m. on Nov. 11. It will also be livestreamed on YouTube.

When is the Leduc Santa Claus Parade?
Sunday, Nov. 22, 2026. The parade starts at 6 p.m. along Main Street (50th Ave), and the Main Street parking ban starts at 4 p.m.

Have a Wonderful Weekend, Neighbours!

Wishing everyone a happy and safe Halloween, and a wonderful start to November in Leduc and Beaumont.

Keith Lopushinsky, REALTOR®, RE/MAX Real Estate

Questions about buying or selling in Leduc or Beaumont? Reach out to Keith Lopushinsky, RE/MAX Real Estate.