This release was issued under a previous government.

Tax relief for families affected by the Wood Buffalo wildfire

Minister Anderson with Mayor Melissa Blake in Fort McMurray

The regional municipality will receive up to $2 million in compensation for the 2017 education property tax requisition, in addition to $5.1 million in funding granted earlier this year for 2016 education property tax relief.

“Our government has stood with the people of Wood Buffalo since the start of this disaster and we will continue to do so during the recovery. This relief is one of many ways that our government is providing support during the rebuilding of this strong and resilient community.” 

Shaye Anderson, Minister of Municipal Affairs

“We welcome this support for residents of Wood Buffalo as we approach the one-year anniversary of the wildfire. We will continue to work with the Government of Alberta to ensure a successful recovery for the people of our community.”

Melissa Blake, Mayor, Regional Municipal of Wood Buffalo

"This is welcome news for our residents in recovery as we continue to see great progress in the rebuilding of our most affected neighbourhoods. We thank the Government of Alberta for its continued approach in supporting recovery efforts in our community and our council for championing this relief measure."

Jeanette Bancarz, chair of the Wood Buffalo Recovery Committee

The Government of Alberta has allocated $743 million to date in disaster assistance funding for costs related to the Wood Buffalo wildfire.

Quick facts

  • The Regional Municipal of Wood Buffalo will set the criteria for providing the compensation to residents.
  • Education property tax helps fund the education of all public and separate school students from kindergarten to Grade 12.