The Lacombe and District Historical Society could see its funding from the city increase by $10,000 when council looks to approve next year's operating budget one week from today.

Last time it was presented, Coun. Cora Hoekstra pushed for council to increase support for the group, saying they made a strong case at the open house that more resources are needed to meet higher demand at the city’s three museums -- the Flatiron Building, Blacksmith Shop and Michener House.

“This is one of the things that contribute to a quality of life in Lacombe,” Hoekstra said in a phone interview.

“We in Lacombe are particularly blessed to have an attractive city. But we also have these historical buildings and sites within our limits that other places do not have. And we like to advertise we have that, so we also need to support that they continue to exist in the future as well.”

The society currently receives $32,500 from the city.

Nicole Leidl is a front-line worker at the Flatiron Building and Michener House.

She said huge crowds came out for special events this year, estimating more than 1,000 showed up at Michener House just on Canada Day.

“It was chaos. We had people everywhere, as many people that could work that day as possible,” Leidl said. “We had staff that never left the front room of the Michener House. They were in there all day directing people. It was pretty insane.”

Part of Leidl’s job includes tour guiding. To provide quality guest experiences, she researches in order to be prepared to field visitor questions.

She also prepares for special events like Lacombe Days, Open Farm Days and the Harvest and Culture Festival.

“It takes a lot out of everyone,” she said. “We’re busy constantly during the summer getting things ready. And even getting things ready for the next year, so we’re a step ahead.”

Council is expected to approve next year’s budgets on Dec. 18. The operating budget includes a 1.3 per cent tax rate increase.