A Regina city councillor is set to challenge the city's investment in electric buses, putting forward a motion to stop the program during upcoming budget deliberations. The move frames the initiative as "another failed program" and seeks to reallocate funds.
Motion Targets Electric Bus Funding
The motion, announced on December 17, 2025, will be presented by the councillor as part of the city's budget discussions. The core argument is that the electric bus program has not delivered on its promises and represents a poor use of municipal resources. Proponents of the motion are expected to argue that the capital and operational costs outweigh the benefits received so far.
Program History and Scrutiny
Regina's foray into electric public transit has been under scrutiny for some time. The program, which aimed to modernize the fleet and reduce emissions, has faced operational challenges and cost overruns. The councillor's motion will likely force a detailed review of the program's performance metrics, including reliability, energy savings, and total cost of ownership compared to traditional diesel buses.
This debate occurs as many Canadian municipalities grapple with the transition to zero-emission vehicles, balancing environmental goals with fiscal responsibility. The outcome in Regina could signal a more cautious approach from other mid-sized cities considering similar green infrastructure projects.
Budget Deliberations and Next Steps
The motion will be tabled during the critical budget planning period, setting the stage for a contentious debate among council members. Supporters of the EV bus program are anticipated to defend it as a necessary long-term investment in sustainable transit and climate action. The decision will hinge on whether a majority of council agrees with the characterization of the program as a failure or views its challenges as growing pains for essential new technology.
The final vote will determine the immediate future of Regina's electric bus fleet and could influence the city's environmental transportation strategy for years to come.
