Gibbons votes to remain a town

Gibbons will not dissolve and become a hamlet within Sturgeon County after 68.5% voted in a plebiscite to keep the municipality as a town. A total of 937 valid ballots were cast, representing 49% of the electorate. While viability review votes are no longer binding, the province confirmed the results. "Our residents spoke clearly, and we are grateful that the province has respected their decision," Mayor Rick Henderson said in a statement following the vote. "We can now move forward with confidence, focusing our full attention on continuing the important work of building a financially sustainable and prosperous future for our community."

Municipalities that undergo a viability review are required to follow several directives from the ministry. "Going forward, we are committed to working with the Town of Gibbons to ensure its long-term viability," Municipal Affairs Minister Dan Williams posted on social media. Gibbons must create an action plan to address all items on the legislative compliance check completed in 2025 and develop a long-term financial recovery plan. The viability review report also recommends that the town enact new financial management policies and consider reducing how many councillors the town elects.

The viability review estimated that Gibbons would require a 42% property tax increase to address its financial shortfall. However, town council said that figure did not take into account the extensive work it has done to reduce expenditures, restructure operations, and establish long-term financial sustainability. Gibbons council approved an 8.28% increase for 2026. Meanwhile, Sturgeon County said it "remains committed to maintaining a productive and respectful relationship with the town" and wished Gibbons success. The county was not enthusiastic about the prospect of absorbing Gibbons, and Mayor Alanna Hnatiw expressed concerns about the process earlier this year.