Late additions mean another increase to TNRD budget

The Thompson Nicola Regional District is expecting to raise taxes by almost 9% next year.

Last month, it was expected to be lower, but late additions like a raise for elected officials mean the regional district needs an additional 2% increase, according to a staff report.

Although regional district staff were able to cut costs by a few million dollars in its administration and finance departments, inflation and rising union salaries put pressure on the 2024 budget.

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The 8.9% tax increase isn't spread evenly across the regional district. Each area and municipality is taxed differently and use regional district services differently.

Of the $64 million budget, 43% comes from property taxes.

Most of the $13 million in tax revenue comes from the City of Kamloops, at nearly $8 million projected for next year. Electoral areas contribute $11.5 million in total, which is more evenly distributed.

The increase in taxes from each region whether rural or municipal varies widely.

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The smallest increase goes to Wells Gray Country, or electoral area "A", with a 2.11% increase to $672,372. The largest goes to Copper Desert Country, or electoral area "J", which will see a 12% increase to around $2 million.

Directors will vote on whether or not to approve the budget today, Dec. 14.

More information on the regional district budget can be found here.


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Levi Landry

Levi is a recent graduate of the Communications, Culture, & Journalism program at Okanagan College and is now based in Kamloops. After living in the BC for over four years, he finds the blue collar and neighbourly environment in the Thompson reminds him of home in Saskatchewan. Levi, who has previously been published in Kelowna’s Daily Courier, is passionate about stories focussed on both social issues and peoples’ experiences in their local community. If you have a story or tips to share, you can reach Levi at 250 819 3723 or email LLandry@infonews.ca.

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