Ask West Kelowna
How Will It Impact You?
The Draft 2020 Budget proposes a spending increase of 6.8%. With 2% offset by growth, the net tax increase will be 4.8%, or $8.04 per month on the average West Kelowna home valued at $642,582.
The 4.8% tax increase is being proposed to maintain reserves, keep pace with inflation, address residents' requests for services and modernize infrastructure.
Why The Increase?
The City must ensure adequate funding is available to upgrade or replace existing, aging infrastructure and equipment. These costs are covered by capital and equipment reserves. If the City fails to build up these accounts, insufficient funds will be available to replace water pump houses, sewer lift stations, fire trucks, etc.
The City must also keep pace with rising market costs for goods and services, including fuel for fire trucks, natural gas and electricity for arenas and street lights, asphalt to fill potholes and patch roads, etc.
The City also receives annually numerous calls, letters, emails, and online requests from residents demanding increased service. Based on the complaints and requests, the City is adding staff in specific areas to reduce wait times, increase bylaw enforcement, add policing, etc.
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