The West Kelowna, B.C., city council has approved its 2024 budget, with a tax increase of 6.85 per cent. The core tax increase is 5.24 per cent to maintain existing services, with the remainder covering inflationary costs, such as software licensing, and negotiated wages for essential staff. The budget also includes funding for additional resources to address housing needs and changes to provincial legislation, with reserves being used for 2024 and further funding considerations in 2025. The total 2024 capital budget is $32.2 million, with funding coming from reserves, development cost charges, debt, and grants.
Projects for the year include the Shannon Lake Road multi-use pathway, a roundabout at Shannon Lake and Asquith roads, and a road rehabilitation program. There will also be projects focused on pedestrian infrastructure improvements, multi-use pathway connections, and the restoration and renovation of the Mount Boucherie Community Centre to include daycare facilities and additional community spaces. The budget includes funding for the purchase of a combined ladder and pump fire truck, as well as funding towards the Fire Hall No. 32 replacement project. The borrowing of up to $8 million for the Fire Hall #32 Replacement Project was approved in 2023, with no new tax increases to the community.
The city’s assessment growth of 1.5 per cent in the previous year resulted in additional revenue being used to reduce the tax burden and increase transfers to reserves. The budget addresses the needs of the community and incorporates necessary funding for essential services and infrastructure projects. Council will continue to monitor funding and make further considerations during the 2025 budget deliberations. The budget aims to balance the needs of the community with financial responsibility and sustainability.
The city council’s decision to adopt the 2024 budget with a 6.85 per cent tax increase reflects the importance of maintaining and improving services for residents. The budget takes into account inflationary costs and negotiated wages for essential staff, as well as additional funding for housing needs and changes to legislation. The capital budget includes funding for various projects, such as the Shannon Lake Road multi-use pathway and the Mount Boucherie Community Centre restoration and renovation.
The budget also allocates funding for a new fire truck and the Fire Hall No. 32 replacement project, with borrowing approved in 2023 and no new tax increases to the community. The city’s assessment growth in the previous year provided additional revenue to reduce the tax burden and support reserves. The city council’s decision to approve the budget demonstrates their commitment to meeting the needs of the community while maintaining financial stability.
Overall, the 2024 budget for West Kelowna prioritizes essential services, infrastructure projects, and community needs. The funding allocated for various projects and initiatives aims to improve the quality of life for residents and address important issues facing the city. With a focus on financial responsibility and sustainability, the budget strikes a balance between meeting current needs and planning for the future. The city council will continue to monitor funding and make adjustments as needed to ensure that the community’s priorities are met.
