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Cranbrook, BC (September 2, 2025) - Public input is invited until Friday, September 19, 2025, on the City’s Budget 2026 Citizen Survey, an important tool to help Council make informed decisions about future services and budget allocations. This survey builds on last year’s input ahead of the 2025 budget process, which guided Council’s decision-making.

Last year’s survey results showed residents felt homelessness, crime, and safety were the most pressing issues facing our community. Mayor and Council prepared a detailed response to those concerns, which you can read here: https://www.cranbrook.ca/budget2026survey.

"One of the most important parts of this process was reviewing and responding to last year’s public comments to ensure every single one was read and considered," said Mayor Wayne Price. "The survey required a great deal of time and effort, with input from Council and staff, to carefully review and respond. I hope everyone takes time to read the responses to their comments and know that when they share their thoughts, Council listens.”

In response to community safety being identified as the number one issue facing Cranbrook in last year’s survey, this year’s survey focuses specifically on community safety.

Cranbrook RCMP, in partnership with the City, is launching the first-ever public safety survey. Developed with support from Criminal and Social Justice students at College of the Rockies, the survey will help guide local policing priorities for the next four years by gathering feedback on safety and community concerns.

The City is running two surveys: a statistically valid survey and a public opinion survey. The statistically valid survey was mailed to 1,600 randomly selected residents to provide a reliable picture of overall community sentiment. The public opinion survey, available online, is open to all City residents to share their ideas and comments. Paper copies are also available for pickup at City Hall. Both sets of results will be presented to Mayor and Council ahead of the 2026 budget discussions this fall.

Mayor, Council, and City Administration remain committed to finding efficiencies and reducing costs wherever possible, while continuing to provide the quality services residents, businesses, and visitors expect.

Complete the survey by Friday, September 19, 2025, at https://www.cranbrook.ca/budget2026survey. Responses are anonymous and will be compiled by an independent firm to ensure confidentiality.