On Monday May 7th Council approved a budget of $37million which will result in no municipal property tax increase for residents or businesses in 2012.
Council gave first, second and third reading of its Financial Plan Bylaw, 2012 and the Tax Rates Bylaw, 2012. The bylaws will be adopted at the May 14th, 2012 Council meeting.
The 0% tax revenue increase was achieved while maintaining core municipal services, replenishing reserve funds and budgeting $7.5 million for capital costs and infrastructure improvements.
“In our 100th year we are pleased to announce that there will be a 0% municipal property tax increase to home and business owners in Esquimalt,” said Mayor Barbara Desjardins. “Residents will continue to benefit from high service levels without having to pay more taxes, and the Township is well situated for the future with its reserve funds and infrastructure budget. We believe we have a budget that meets the needs of the present and the future.”
Budget expenditure priorities for 2012 include:
• Continuing with the upgrade of Craigflower Road;
• Municipal facilities upgrades in support of the BC Climate Action Charter commitment on carbon neutrality and reducing greenhouse gas emissions;
• Developing a multi-modal transportation plan including improvements for cyclists, pedestrians, rail/transit users and vehicle commuters;
• Continuing with the Public Works Infill and Infiltration sewer upgrade to reduce future sewer costs; and,
• Moving forward with a public hearing and zoning bylaw for the Esquimalt Village Plan.
For more information, please contact:
Laurie Hurst, Chief Administrative Officer
Tel: 250-414-7133