Winnipeg's year-end surplus for 2017 is greater than anticipated in November.

The city ended 2017 with a surplus of near-$15-million. In November, it was forecast to be $8.7-million.

The city credits, in part, a lack of snow in December, and subsequent savings in snow clearing, for the additional money. That's a reverse of 2016, when more snow fell than expected, contributing to a $9.5-million shortfall. According to a report that will go before the city's Standing Policy Committee on Finance on February 15th, public works also saved money in 2017 through position vacancies and insect control expenditures from favourable weather conditions.

Following the shortfall arising from the 2016 budget, the city undertook a cost mitigation strategy that included a hiring freeze, restrictions on discretionary departmental spending, and limits to other discretionary spending. The city says it also benefited from significant savings through negotiated collective agreements.

The financial report references less-than-expected funds from the province, and says discussions continue regarding provincial funding to the city for 2017 capital projects.

"While there is still some uncertainty regarding provincial funding levels, all efforts have been made to exercise sound decision-making in regards to the City’s finances," says councillor Scott Gillingham in a release. Gillingham is the chair of the finance committee.

One ongoing discussion centres around ambulance funding, which the city says has been frozen at 2016 levels.

The entire $15-million surplus will be transferred to the city's Financial Stabilization Reserve.