It's a new year, but some of the City of Red Deer's goals for 2017 haven't changed. 

After a tough year for many Red Deerians in 2016, the City will look to stabilize the economy, and lower the unemployment rate.

Mayor Tara Veer says projects wise, the need for a new courthouse will once again be at the forefront of Councils funding wish list to the Provincial government "we will continue to pursue a new courthouse for Red Deer and region, recognizing that delays in justice can result in stays in proceedings which doesn't help us with our public safety challenges".

There are a couple of other top service priorities according to Veer "we will also be advocating for shelter capacity in Red Deer and region and for support services for our vulnerable citizens and to secure Polytechnic status for Red Deer".

Red Deer city council will be discussing the 2017 operating budget over the next few weeks, as they try to find ways to possibly cut back on a proposed 2.5% tax hike.