New Kelowna budget carries 3.9% tax hike

Kelowna Council has approved its 2022 financial plan which has a tax increase of 3.94 per cent.

That translates to an additional $86 a year for the average residential property.

The budget includes $35 million for water, wastewater and stormwater protection projects. An additional $31 million will be invested in parks and public spaces infrastructure projects.

Community safety represents the largest operating investment at 31 per cent. With the addition of 17 public safety related positions, including 11 new RCMP officers, for a proposed $2.7 million investment once annualized in 2024.

Other priorities include advancing the city’s energy and environmental initiatives that address climate change with low-carbon initiatives, including continued investment in active transportation corridors, alternative modes of transportation, additional vehicle charging stations and GHG emissions software.

The city’s gross tax demand is $167 million. General municipal taxation in 2022 will account for approximately 25 per cent of the city’s operational revenues. Additional funding sources this year include grants, reserves and user fees.

Residents will receive their property tax notices in late May. Property taxes are due by July 4 and there is a legislated, non-discretionary penalty of 10 per cent for late payments.

Property owners are reminded that the Homeowner Grant program is now provided through the Province of BC. To apply for a retroactive or new grant, visit www.gov.bc.ca/homeownergrant.

For more information about the city budget and to view the 2022 Financial Plan, visit kelowna.ca/budget.