Notes from Council: Capital infrastructure and funding discussed
It was announced that the UASU health and dental plan will be frozen at $404.77 for 2026-27.
Helen ZhangAt the University of Alberta Students’ Union (UASU) Students’ Council meeting on March 28, Marc Dumouchel, UASU general manager, presented on capital infrastructure.
Additionally, the UASU health and dental plan was announced to be frozen at $404.77 for 2026–27.
Capital infrastructure and funding
Dumouchel spoke about the review of the Sustainability and Capital Fund (SCF). Dumouchel primarily discussed evaluating how the UASU manages long-term fiscal and capital asset planning. The plans will be formalized within the next four to six months.
Dumouchel highlighted that long-term financial security depends on their annual program for operating budgets, as well as a forward-looking strategy for managing major capital programs.
He mentioned that the budget is separated into two sections: operating and capital. While operating exists as the base budget, the capital budget is allocated for larger projects. An example of a capital project is the Myer Horowitz Theatre renovations.
The major capital needs of the SU are not a priority to the U of A or the provincial government, according to Dumouchel. This is why the SU has the SCF.
The full review of the SCF will be brought forth to council on April 7.
Health and dental plan
Vice-president (operations and finance) Nathan Thiessen spoke about the UASU health and dental plan.
Thiessen highlighted that the fee must ensure that the insurance policy remains competitive and reflective of the needs of students.
He was happy to announce that the health and dental plan will be frozen at $404.77.
Operating capital and non-dedicated reserve budget
Thiessen also presented on the 2026–27 operating capital and non-dedicated reserve budget for the SU. The budget largely covers SU-owned businesses, including SUBmart, Deweys, and SUBprint.
Thiessen stated that growth is expected for SUBmart, the two Daily Grind coffee shops, as well as Room At The Top (RATT).
He also reported SUBprint as remaining relatively stable. Thiessen mentioned that Dewey’s is expecting a loss due to infrastructure issues this year. With regard to student services and activities, Thiessen reported a net savings of five per cent.
