Property taxes going up almost 5% in Vernon

A 2023 tax hike of 4.79% was supported by Vernon city council today, Dec. 6.

The 2023 budget includes 2.89% for operating and service increases with another 1.9% added as part of an annual increase to cover the cost of city infrastructure, according to a City of Vernon media release.

“While deliberating the budget, council carefully reviewed proposed improvements to a number of core public services and thoughtfully considered the balance between affordability and community needs,” Mayor Victor Cumming said in the release.

“In the end, council endorsed a budget that prioritizes safety, improves snow clearing, maintains services our citizens rely on every day, and enables the city’s ability to practically and sustainably support an ever-growing community.”

The budget includes two new RCMP officers, a deputy fire chief and an additional bylaw officer.

READ MORE: What will Vernon's Active Living Centre actually cost taxpayers?

The city will spend $12 million for the final design of the new Active Living Centre project this year, or about 10% of the full cost of the $121 million facility.

There will be no tax impact for that next year. Funds are expected to be borrowed through the Municipal Finance Authority in the fall of 2023.

Residents will start paying for the new recreation centre in 2024 with taxes gradually going up by a total of 17% by 2027. Those payments will continue for 30 years.

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