Urgent: Regina Arts Groups Face Cuts Amid Budget Crisis

UPDATE: Regina’s vibrant arts scene faces a dire threat as the city council considers cutting funding for the Floral Conservatory and several local arts organizations in the upcoming 2026 budget. This shocking proposal, revealed in a forecast presented to city officials, could lead to devastating impacts on the community’s cultural fabric.

City officials announced that maintaining current service levels would require a staggering 15.69 percent increase in property taxes, translating to an additional $33 per month for the average homeowner. To mitigate this hike, the administration has identified 131 services that could face cuts, including crucial funding for the Neil Balkwill Arts Centre, which houses the Art Gallery of Regina.

“This would be incredibly difficult for us,” stated Sandee Moore, curator and director of the gallery, expressing her disbelief at the potential loss of their facility. The proposed cut could save the city $250,000 annually, yet only reduce the tax burden by $0.53 monthly for homeowners.

The Community Investments and Grant Program (CIGP), which supports various cultural initiatives, including the gallery, faces an even harsher fate. Eliminating this program could save a whopping $5.37 million, providing an $11.33 monthly relief to homeowners. Moore emphasized that the loss of funding would lead to a crisis, making it difficult for the gallery to continue its mission.

Concerns resonate throughout the community, as many local festivals and arts organizations rely on this support. Don Young, director of the Cathedral Village Arts Festival, shared the emotional toll this news has taken: “There were a lot of stressful phone calls and emails floating back and forth around the community over the weekend.” The festival itself receives $10,000 annually from CIGP.

Another significant cut under consideration is the closure of the Regina Floral Conservatory. If funding is axed, the beloved greenhouses would shut down by the end of June 2026, saving the city over $730,000 each year, which equates to $1.51 monthly for homeowners. “This news shocked us,” remarked Jolene Norleen, a board member of the conservatory. “We’ve seen amazing support from the public, and their stories highlight how much the conservatory means to our community.”

In a bid to garner support, the conservatory has urged its followers on social media to contact their city councillors and the mayor. So far, the response has been overwhelmingly positive, with many people expressing their desire to preserve this local treasure.

As the city grapples with balancing a growing population and dwindling funds, the council is set to begin debating the final budget and mill rate on December 15. Community members are encouraged to voice their opinions and address the council by signing up on Regina.ca.

No final decisions have been made yet, but the urgency for action is palpable as residents contemplate the potential loss of vital cultural services. With the future of Regina’s arts and community spaces hanging in the balance, the time to act is NOW.