Québec City to Cut Funding for Popular Day Camps
Quebec City is set to face funding cuts affecting its popular summer day camps under the Summer Vacation Program (PVE). As part of the 2026 budget, recently approved in December, the City plans to reduce funding by $700,000 for this program. However, the administration led by Mayor Marchand initially indicated that these cuts would not disrupt services.
Funding Cuts Overview
On December 3, 2025, General Director Luc Monty described this $700,000 reduction as an optimization strategy. He stated that the previous budget was excessive and indicated that the planned number of spots for campers didn’t require as much funding. Monty firmly denied that there would be fewer spots or higher costs for families in 2026.
Revised Budget Scenarios
Despite assurances, an internal document from December 15 suggests a more complex reality. It outlines various funding cut scenarios, including:
- An increase in registration fees by $79 to $87 (a 16% to 25% increase).
- A potential 6% reduction in available spots.
- The elimination of family discounts, potentially saving $120,000.
- Adjusting the hours young campers can arrive and depart could reduce staff hours from 45 to 44, saving $114,000.
- Cutting half of the budget for special activities.
- Reducing swimming sessions from 21 to 14, saving approximately $78,000.
These proposed cuts have sparked concern among partner organizations providing day camp services. A source involved with the matter, who requested anonymity, revealed that such budgetary cuts typically lead to organizations shouldering the burden, while the City steps back from responsibility. This raises questions about the administration’s commitment to maintaining the quality of services.
Response from City Officials
City officials have emphasized that the December 15 document was merely a working paper for consultations. A representative mentioned it is already outdated, and feedback has led the City back to the drawing board to incorporate comments from the partner organizations.
However, officials did not provide clarity on the proposed scenarios regarding the cuts to activities and services. The ongoing discussions aim to balance community needs with the constraints of municipal budgeting.
For further updates or information on this developing story, please contact us directly at El-Balad.
