HOUSTON — February 1 and 2, 2026, marked a period of high-stakes budget deliberations for municipalities throughout the Skeena and Bulkley Valley. In the District of Houston, local leaders are wrestling with a $1.2 million deficit in the 2026 budget—a shortfall that represents approximately 20% of the district’s annual taxation income.
The “Closure Allowance” Crisis
The primary cause of this fiscal gap is a “closure allowance” recently issued by BC Assessment for the permanently closed Canfor mill site. Because the property is no longer considered an active enterprise, its industrial assessment has been significantly reduced, stripping the district of the tax revenue that once served as the town’s economic cornerstone.
Houston 2026 Budget Mitigation Strategies
On February 2, the district identified three primary options to close the revenue gap and limit the immediate impact on residential property taxes:
| Option | Source | Amount (Annual) | Impact Duration |
| 1 | Rate Stabilization Reserve | $500,000 | 2026 – 2028 |
| 2 | NW Resources Benefits Funding | $400,000 | 2026 – 2028 |
| 3 | Municipal Expense Cuts | Various | Ongoing |
| Total | Combined Measures | $900,000+ | 2026 – 2028 |
The Long-Term Outlook
Even if all three mitigation measures are implemented, the district still anticipates a $308,000 shortfall for the 2026 fiscal year. Projections shared by municipal staff indicate that without property tax increases, this deficit could grow to $1.8 million by 2030.
Community Engagement and Next Steps
A town hall meeting was scheduled for the first week of February at the Houston Seniors’ Centre to gather resident input and address concerns regarding the budget. Mayor Shane Brienen has emphasized that while the district possesses a $1.65 million stabilization reserve specifically for these transitions, “tough decisions” remain necessary to maintain essential utilities and public safety.
The district aims to present a finalized, balanced budget by April 2026, as it continues to advocate for a sale of the mill site that could see wood processed in Houston once again.
