A balanced budget approach is wanted by Alberta residents according to the latest Alberta budget survey. In the survey residents of the province chose their top picks when it came to tax hikes. The online Budget 2015 survey results were released not long ago, and it showed that provincial residents were evenly divided about spending reductions, revenue increases, and deficits to make up for a $7 billion shortfall in revenue. Robin Campbell, the minister of finance, said “Albertans have been paying attention and they understand government needs to make tough decisions to deal with our fiscal situation. Budget 2015 will reflect the balanced and thoughtful approach Albertans have signalled they want. Government understands it can’t move too hard in any direction without risking further economic damage.”

The Alberta budget survey results show that a balanced budget approach is favored by many residents. Everyone has their programs or services that they consider sacred, but compromise will be necessary in order to make up the budget shortfall and continue to provide the services and programs that residents need and rely on. The survey was available online from February 5 through February 28, and is intended to provide resident input on budget issues. The budget for Alberta will be released on March 26. The new budget must reflect the lower revenue expected due to dropping oil prices, and address the expected budget shortfall. Administrative staff cuts were popular with residents, but only if these cuts did not impact front line service.