2023 Draft Budget & Five Year Financial Plan

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The 2023 budget process is now closed. Please subscribe to District emails at www.lakecountry.bc.ca/subscribe to receive information on all upcoming community engagement projects including the 2024 budget.

March 7, 2023 Update

Council  adopted the five-year financial plan that includes the 2023 budget at the March 7th Regular Council meeting. 

February 23rd, 2023 Update

Council gives second and third reading to the 2023 budget

On February 23rd Council reviewed and discussed for nearly two hours the five-year financial plan that includes the 2023 budget. After several discussions leading up to Thursday’s Special Council meeting it was determined that the 17.05% increase is unavoidable and cannot be reduced for 2023.

Since the first reading of the budget on January 31st Council hosted a hybrid town hall which consisted

March 7, 2023 Update

Council  adopted the five-year financial plan that includes the 2023 budget at the March 7th Regular Council meeting. 

February 23rd, 2023 Update

Council gives second and third reading to the 2023 budget

On February 23rd Council reviewed and discussed for nearly two hours the five-year financial plan that includes the 2023 budget. After several discussions leading up to Thursday’s Special Council meeting it was determined that the 17.05% increase is unavoidable and cannot be reduced for 2023.

Since the first reading of the budget on January 31st Council hosted a hybrid town hall which consisted of community members participating through Facebook Live, Council streaming and in person. Council also received and considered over 100 comments and questions that were submitted by community members through Let’s Talk – Lake Country and email.

February 1st, 2023 Update

On January 31st Council reviewed the five-year financial plan that includes the draft 2023 budget. After careful consideration of information presented and discussion from the January 26th meeting, Council gave first reading to the 2023 budget as follows:

Base Increase – 12.83% which includes:

  • RCMP impact due to increase in population.
  • Loss of fire contract with the City of Kelowna.
  • Road maintenance contract.
  • Inflationary contractual and wage rate increases.

Operating Supplementals – 4.22%

Total Proposed Increase at First Reading – 17.05%

Council made the decision to delay funding for Pelmewash Rock Stability initiative and to revisit the initiative again in 2024.

January 27th, 2023 Update

On January 26th Council reviewed the five-year financial plan that includes the draft 2023 budget. After careful consideration of the current financial landscape, community growth and ensuring every dollar spent at the District provides value to the community, Council deferred first reading of the financial plan. The delay allows time for staff to propose options to Council how to use the remaining balance of the COVID-19 Safe Restart Grant. Options will include funding capital or one-off items which would preserve certain reserves for future projects as well as options to fund proposed ongoing operating items on a one-time basis, which would reduce the 2023 tax increase, and then reassess those items in the 2024 budget whether they would continue on an ongoing basis using tax increases at that time.

Council is asking for community feedback on two specific proposed costs. Please let Council know which option is preferable by leaving a comment and taking the quick poll (bottom of the page).

  1. RCMP Funding (options found on page 4 of the draft financial plan)
  2. Pelmewash Slope Stability Mitigation Plan (options found in on page 127 of the draft financial plan)

Review Draft 2023 Financial Plan

January 13, 2023 Update

2023 property tax increase being considered:

Various options will be presented to Council on how to effectively stagger and phase in unavoidable escalating costs. The 2023 property tax increase will range somewhere between 9.95% to 19.02% depending on how Council chooses to move forward. To put the increase into perspective, a 1% increase results in approximately a $20 annual increase, for the average single-family home. BC Assessment has determined that the average single-family home in Lake Country in 2023 is $1.087 Million. 

As 2023 budget deliberations approach beginning on January 26th the community is reminded of the importance to get involved and let Council know your thoughts on the 2023 draft budget. Public engagement is an important component of the budget process. Budget details can be found at Let’s Talk-Lake Country. Review the materials and leave your questions/comments on the official budget webpage. Staff will ensure that all feedback received on the 2023 draft budget will be relayed to Council prior to adoption of the budget. Aside from District official social media channels (Facebook and Instagram) – staff do not monitor external comments and conversations on other pages.

January 3, 2023 Update

Council reviewed and approved early 2023 budget requests - to see a full list of expenditures click here. Council also received a report on increased RCMP costs due to Lake Country population growth. Council meeting video can be seen here (click on the agenda item of interest and the video will start at that section of the agenda).

As 2023 budget and five-year financial plan deliberations approach, the District will be publishing a series of “You Asked” articles to better explain key challenges our growing community faces. Articles will be posted here on Let's Talk - Lake Country.

If you have a question for Council please go to the Q&A section below and ask.

Visit Let's Talk-Lake Country often to receive up-to-date information on the budget process. The Draft 2023-2027 Five-Year Financial Plan will be published on January 19th, 2023 and can be found here.

The 2023 budget process is now closed. Please subscribe to District emails at www.lakecountry.bc.ca/subscribe to receive information on all upcoming community engagement projects including the 2024 budget.

  • Share Echoing PT and LC Member. Lakehill Drive and Tyndall Road are quite good but thats thanks to the developers who contracted those connector roadways on behalf of DLC. However road works contracted by DLC in many cases are far inferior. One can assume that the same contractors are being used correct, but why have fairly recent road resurfacing works like Glenmore from the boundary of Kelowna to the Shanks Road so terrible? Many remember that roadway was excavated to install a sewer system to Northview. One would assume that the fill was correctly placed, properly compacted and the new asphalt was placed to accommodate traffic typical of a major collector. Yet within a few months it was pothole alley. Camp Road west of the OLD fire hall was recently repaved and within 1 month there were crews out "fixing" that awful road surface. Is there no warranty period? Why does DLC accept inferior road works while recent works say in Kelowna are F1 race car smooth after paving? Beaver Lake Road is very nicely paved from Haldane Rd to the water treatment facility a few Kms east up the hill but barely anyone uses that road! I've lived in DLC for 25 years and DLC council, on the advice of staff, has bumped taxes betcha a dozen times to catch up on "aging infrastructure", more specifically roads but many roads (including these 2 recently repaved examples) are simply sub par, why? Davidson Rd recent repaving seems to be pretty good so far. Council - didn't DLC receive money from the province upon incorporation in 1995 to upgrade roads? Is DLC using DCC (direct cost charges) paid by developers for road improvements? Those DCC's must very be substantial given the amount of development in the LC... on Facebook Share Echoing PT and LC Member. Lakehill Drive and Tyndall Road are quite good but thats thanks to the developers who contracted those connector roadways on behalf of DLC. However road works contracted by DLC in many cases are far inferior. One can assume that the same contractors are being used correct, but why have fairly recent road resurfacing works like Glenmore from the boundary of Kelowna to the Shanks Road so terrible? Many remember that roadway was excavated to install a sewer system to Northview. One would assume that the fill was correctly placed, properly compacted and the new asphalt was placed to accommodate traffic typical of a major collector. Yet within a few months it was pothole alley. Camp Road west of the OLD fire hall was recently repaved and within 1 month there were crews out "fixing" that awful road surface. Is there no warranty period? Why does DLC accept inferior road works while recent works say in Kelowna are F1 race car smooth after paving? Beaver Lake Road is very nicely paved from Haldane Rd to the water treatment facility a few Kms east up the hill but barely anyone uses that road! I've lived in DLC for 25 years and DLC council, on the advice of staff, has bumped taxes betcha a dozen times to catch up on "aging infrastructure", more specifically roads but many roads (including these 2 recently repaved examples) are simply sub par, why? Davidson Rd recent repaving seems to be pretty good so far. Council - didn't DLC receive money from the province upon incorporation in 1995 to upgrade roads? Is DLC using DCC (direct cost charges) paid by developers for road improvements? Those DCC's must very be substantial given the amount of development in the LC... on Twitter Share Echoing PT and LC Member. Lakehill Drive and Tyndall Road are quite good but thats thanks to the developers who contracted those connector roadways on behalf of DLC. However road works contracted by DLC in many cases are far inferior. One can assume that the same contractors are being used correct, but why have fairly recent road resurfacing works like Glenmore from the boundary of Kelowna to the Shanks Road so terrible? Many remember that roadway was excavated to install a sewer system to Northview. One would assume that the fill was correctly placed, properly compacted and the new asphalt was placed to accommodate traffic typical of a major collector. Yet within a few months it was pothole alley. Camp Road west of the OLD fire hall was recently repaved and within 1 month there were crews out "fixing" that awful road surface. Is there no warranty period? Why does DLC accept inferior road works while recent works say in Kelowna are F1 race car smooth after paving? Beaver Lake Road is very nicely paved from Haldane Rd to the water treatment facility a few Kms east up the hill but barely anyone uses that road! I've lived in DLC for 25 years and DLC council, on the advice of staff, has bumped taxes betcha a dozen times to catch up on "aging infrastructure", more specifically roads but many roads (including these 2 recently repaved examples) are simply sub par, why? Davidson Rd recent repaving seems to be pretty good so far. Council - didn't DLC receive money from the province upon incorporation in 1995 to upgrade roads? Is DLC using DCC (direct cost charges) paid by developers for road improvements? Those DCC's must very be substantial given the amount of development in the LC... on Linkedin Email Echoing PT and LC Member. Lakehill Drive and Tyndall Road are quite good but thats thanks to the developers who contracted those connector roadways on behalf of DLC. However road works contracted by DLC in many cases are far inferior. One can assume that the same contractors are being used correct, but why have fairly recent road resurfacing works like Glenmore from the boundary of Kelowna to the Shanks Road so terrible? Many remember that roadway was excavated to install a sewer system to Northview. One would assume that the fill was correctly placed, properly compacted and the new asphalt was placed to accommodate traffic typical of a major collector. Yet within a few months it was pothole alley. Camp Road west of the OLD fire hall was recently repaved and within 1 month there were crews out "fixing" that awful road surface. Is there no warranty period? Why does DLC accept inferior road works while recent works say in Kelowna are F1 race car smooth after paving? Beaver Lake Road is very nicely paved from Haldane Rd to the water treatment facility a few Kms east up the hill but barely anyone uses that road! I've lived in DLC for 25 years and DLC council, on the advice of staff, has bumped taxes betcha a dozen times to catch up on "aging infrastructure", more specifically roads but many roads (including these 2 recently repaved examples) are simply sub par, why? Davidson Rd recent repaving seems to be pretty good so far. Council - didn't DLC receive money from the province upon incorporation in 1995 to upgrade roads? Is DLC using DCC (direct cost charges) paid by developers for road improvements? Those DCC's must very be substantial given the amount of development in the LC... link

    Echoing PT and LC Member. Lakehill Drive and Tyndall Road are quite good but thats thanks to the developers who contracted those connector roadways on behalf of DLC. However road works contracted by DLC in many cases are far inferior. One can assume that the same contractors are being used correct, but why have fairly recent road resurfacing works like Glenmore from the boundary of Kelowna to the Shanks Road so terrible? Many remember that roadway was excavated to install a sewer system to Northview. One would assume that the fill was correctly placed, properly compacted and the new asphalt was placed to accommodate traffic typical of a major collector. Yet within a few months it was pothole alley. Camp Road west of the OLD fire hall was recently repaved and within 1 month there were crews out "fixing" that awful road surface. Is there no warranty period? Why does DLC accept inferior road works while recent works say in Kelowna are F1 race car smooth after paving? Beaver Lake Road is very nicely paved from Haldane Rd to the water treatment facility a few Kms east up the hill but barely anyone uses that road! I've lived in DLC for 25 years and DLC council, on the advice of staff, has bumped taxes betcha a dozen times to catch up on "aging infrastructure", more specifically roads but many roads (including these 2 recently repaved examples) are simply sub par, why? Davidson Rd recent repaving seems to be pretty good so far. Council - didn't DLC receive money from the province upon incorporation in 1995 to upgrade roads? Is DLC using DCC (direct cost charges) paid by developers for road improvements? Those DCC's must very be substantial given the amount of development in the LC...

    PJ asked over 1 year ago

    Thank you for the questions.

    The history of the District receiving the roads is outlined in the Transportation for Tomorrow and the Mobility Master Plan. The District received roads from the Province that were underfunded causing a backlog.

    As at December 31, 2021 the District had $1.3 million in Roads DCCs. We cover at least a portion of the costs using Road DCCs on most major road projects we do based on eligibility, please see the Five-Year year capital plan which breaks down how much is budgeted to come from DCCs on upcoming projects, there are $1.8 million of DCCs budgeted to be spent on the Woodsdale Road and Robinson Road projects alone. The District does not believe the Road DCCs that are currently being collected are adequate therefore a DCC review is scheduled to occur in 2023 to ensure development is contributing appropriately.  

  • Share I am stunned, that with all of the input council has had on the proposed budget you could not find anyway to cut expenses or to increase taxes. I believe that the members of council who mentioned speaking to the citizens and overwhelmingly the people said the weren’t happy with the unjust increase in municipal taxes, but also they didnt want any cuts to services. Well I would like to say that I don’t believe council members are listening. We absolutely want cuts, especially if it has nothing to do with water, sewage, roads and the increase in revenue other than Municipal taxes. The council is in need of clear strategic priorities. Water, sewage, roads, increase in service fees or fines. Yesterday’s council meeting was an incredible display of what not to say and do. The mayors comments on what’s people over 55 should do is inappropriate and another example of why I am now convinced he shouldn’t be our mayor. I wonder if any process exits to suggest and investigate the value of removing him. I’m sorry that for the first time in my life I am disturbed enough to voice my comments. What I have seen yesterday during the council meeting is not acceptable. Have a nice day on Facebook Share I am stunned, that with all of the input council has had on the proposed budget you could not find anyway to cut expenses or to increase taxes. I believe that the members of council who mentioned speaking to the citizens and overwhelmingly the people said the weren’t happy with the unjust increase in municipal taxes, but also they didnt want any cuts to services. Well I would like to say that I don’t believe council members are listening. We absolutely want cuts, especially if it has nothing to do with water, sewage, roads and the increase in revenue other than Municipal taxes. The council is in need of clear strategic priorities. Water, sewage, roads, increase in service fees or fines. Yesterday’s council meeting was an incredible display of what not to say and do. The mayors comments on what’s people over 55 should do is inappropriate and another example of why I am now convinced he shouldn’t be our mayor. I wonder if any process exits to suggest and investigate the value of removing him. I’m sorry that for the first time in my life I am disturbed enough to voice my comments. What I have seen yesterday during the council meeting is not acceptable. Have a nice day on Twitter Share I am stunned, that with all of the input council has had on the proposed budget you could not find anyway to cut expenses or to increase taxes. I believe that the members of council who mentioned speaking to the citizens and overwhelmingly the people said the weren’t happy with the unjust increase in municipal taxes, but also they didnt want any cuts to services. Well I would like to say that I don’t believe council members are listening. We absolutely want cuts, especially if it has nothing to do with water, sewage, roads and the increase in revenue other than Municipal taxes. The council is in need of clear strategic priorities. Water, sewage, roads, increase in service fees or fines. Yesterday’s council meeting was an incredible display of what not to say and do. The mayors comments on what’s people over 55 should do is inappropriate and another example of why I am now convinced he shouldn’t be our mayor. I wonder if any process exits to suggest and investigate the value of removing him. I’m sorry that for the first time in my life I am disturbed enough to voice my comments. What I have seen yesterday during the council meeting is not acceptable. Have a nice day on Linkedin Email I am stunned, that with all of the input council has had on the proposed budget you could not find anyway to cut expenses or to increase taxes. I believe that the members of council who mentioned speaking to the citizens and overwhelmingly the people said the weren’t happy with the unjust increase in municipal taxes, but also they didnt want any cuts to services. Well I would like to say that I don’t believe council members are listening. We absolutely want cuts, especially if it has nothing to do with water, sewage, roads and the increase in revenue other than Municipal taxes. The council is in need of clear strategic priorities. Water, sewage, roads, increase in service fees or fines. Yesterday’s council meeting was an incredible display of what not to say and do. The mayors comments on what’s people over 55 should do is inappropriate and another example of why I am now convinced he shouldn’t be our mayor. I wonder if any process exits to suggest and investigate the value of removing him. I’m sorry that for the first time in my life I am disturbed enough to voice my comments. What I have seen yesterday during the council meeting is not acceptable. Have a nice day link

    I am stunned, that with all of the input council has had on the proposed budget you could not find anyway to cut expenses or to increase taxes. I believe that the members of council who mentioned speaking to the citizens and overwhelmingly the people said the weren’t happy with the unjust increase in municipal taxes, but also they didnt want any cuts to services. Well I would like to say that I don’t believe council members are listening. We absolutely want cuts, especially if it has nothing to do with water, sewage, roads and the increase in revenue other than Municipal taxes. The council is in need of clear strategic priorities. Water, sewage, roads, increase in service fees or fines. Yesterday’s council meeting was an incredible display of what not to say and do. The mayors comments on what’s people over 55 should do is inappropriate and another example of why I am now convinced he shouldn’t be our mayor. I wonder if any process exits to suggest and investigate the value of removing him. I’m sorry that for the first time in my life I am disturbed enough to voice my comments. What I have seen yesterday during the council meeting is not acceptable. Have a nice day

    Giovanni asked over 1 year ago

    Your comments are appreciated. If you wish to address Council please note that there is Public Comment opportunity at the beginning of every Council meeting (1st and 3rd Tuesday of most months).

  • Share As a Winfield resident since 1997 im shocked!! at the proposed tax increase . Since covid and now with record inflation homeowners now have a 17% property tax increase to increase the burden placed on ones shoulders . The RCMP request for more officers is their plan, not ours. The community leaders should decide on how many new police members get hired and at what time interval. Taxpayer affordability with contracts and service levels must be given the highest consideration on Facebook Share As a Winfield resident since 1997 im shocked!! at the proposed tax increase . Since covid and now with record inflation homeowners now have a 17% property tax increase to increase the burden placed on ones shoulders . The RCMP request for more officers is their plan, not ours. The community leaders should decide on how many new police members get hired and at what time interval. Taxpayer affordability with contracts and service levels must be given the highest consideration on Twitter Share As a Winfield resident since 1997 im shocked!! at the proposed tax increase . Since covid and now with record inflation homeowners now have a 17% property tax increase to increase the burden placed on ones shoulders . The RCMP request for more officers is their plan, not ours. The community leaders should decide on how many new police members get hired and at what time interval. Taxpayer affordability with contracts and service levels must be given the highest consideration on Linkedin Email As a Winfield resident since 1997 im shocked!! at the proposed tax increase . Since covid and now with record inflation homeowners now have a 17% property tax increase to increase the burden placed on ones shoulders . The RCMP request for more officers is their plan, not ours. The community leaders should decide on how many new police members get hired and at what time interval. Taxpayer affordability with contracts and service levels must be given the highest consideration link

    As a Winfield resident since 1997 im shocked!! at the proposed tax increase . Since covid and now with record inflation homeowners now have a 17% property tax increase to increase the burden placed on ones shoulders . The RCMP request for more officers is their plan, not ours. The community leaders should decide on how many new police members get hired and at what time interval. Taxpayer affordability with contracts and service levels must be given the highest consideration

    Randy L asked over 1 year ago

    Thank you for your comments. 

  • Share In the January 26, 2023, Special Council Meeting Minutes it states that Administration proposed two options for the 2023 Property Tax Increase: Option A – 14% Option B – 9.95% Yet in the minutes of the January 31 Special Council meeting it states that Council approved the 2023 Property Tax Increase of 17.05% and that this motion was Carried. Am I correct that Council approved a budget that was 3.05% higher than what the administration was even requesting? As the minutes did not state that any Council members voted against the 17.05% property tax increase can the voting public assume that the Mayor and every Council Member agreed with the 17.05% property tax increase for 2023? on Facebook Share In the January 26, 2023, Special Council Meeting Minutes it states that Administration proposed two options for the 2023 Property Tax Increase: Option A – 14% Option B – 9.95% Yet in the minutes of the January 31 Special Council meeting it states that Council approved the 2023 Property Tax Increase of 17.05% and that this motion was Carried. Am I correct that Council approved a budget that was 3.05% higher than what the administration was even requesting? As the minutes did not state that any Council members voted against the 17.05% property tax increase can the voting public assume that the Mayor and every Council Member agreed with the 17.05% property tax increase for 2023? on Twitter Share In the January 26, 2023, Special Council Meeting Minutes it states that Administration proposed two options for the 2023 Property Tax Increase: Option A – 14% Option B – 9.95% Yet in the minutes of the January 31 Special Council meeting it states that Council approved the 2023 Property Tax Increase of 17.05% and that this motion was Carried. Am I correct that Council approved a budget that was 3.05% higher than what the administration was even requesting? As the minutes did not state that any Council members voted against the 17.05% property tax increase can the voting public assume that the Mayor and every Council Member agreed with the 17.05% property tax increase for 2023? on Linkedin Email In the January 26, 2023, Special Council Meeting Minutes it states that Administration proposed two options for the 2023 Property Tax Increase: Option A – 14% Option B – 9.95% Yet in the minutes of the January 31 Special Council meeting it states that Council approved the 2023 Property Tax Increase of 17.05% and that this motion was Carried. Am I correct that Council approved a budget that was 3.05% higher than what the administration was even requesting? As the minutes did not state that any Council members voted against the 17.05% property tax increase can the voting public assume that the Mayor and every Council Member agreed with the 17.05% property tax increase for 2023? link

    In the January 26, 2023, Special Council Meeting Minutes it states that Administration proposed two options for the 2023 Property Tax Increase: Option A – 14% Option B – 9.95% Yet in the minutes of the January 31 Special Council meeting it states that Council approved the 2023 Property Tax Increase of 17.05% and that this motion was Carried. Am I correct that Council approved a budget that was 3.05% higher than what the administration was even requesting? As the minutes did not state that any Council members voted against the 17.05% property tax increase can the voting public assume that the Mayor and every Council Member agreed with the 17.05% property tax increase for 2023?

    John S asked over 1 year ago

    At first reading, Council was presented with a base increase of 9.95% or 14% depending on how they wanted to handle the RCMP increases in addition to other operating supplemental items totalling up to 5.02%. Therefore the range put in front of them was 9.95% - 19.02%. Council voted unanimously on 17.05% at first reading.

     At 2nd & 3rd reading on February 23 Council provided 2nd and 3rd readings at 17.05% with Councillor Reed and Councillor McKenzie opposing the motion. 

  • Share I am echoing the comments made by LC Member 101 regarding the condition of Glenmore Road. It is beyond ridiculous and is a real embarrassment for Lake Country. When approaching it from the Kelowna side it is as if you are entering a third world state. Why hasn't some of the road levy been used to finally address this once and for all? You mention in your response that that corridor is being looked at within the Lake Country Business Park planning and the MoTI regional transportation study, and that it could change significantly in the next few years... seriously, years?? I would think something like a simple repaving of a relatively small section would take precedence over some artwork along the west side of Wood Lake. on Facebook Share I am echoing the comments made by LC Member 101 regarding the condition of Glenmore Road. It is beyond ridiculous and is a real embarrassment for Lake Country. When approaching it from the Kelowna side it is as if you are entering a third world state. Why hasn't some of the road levy been used to finally address this once and for all? You mention in your response that that corridor is being looked at within the Lake Country Business Park planning and the MoTI regional transportation study, and that it could change significantly in the next few years... seriously, years?? I would think something like a simple repaving of a relatively small section would take precedence over some artwork along the west side of Wood Lake. on Twitter Share I am echoing the comments made by LC Member 101 regarding the condition of Glenmore Road. It is beyond ridiculous and is a real embarrassment for Lake Country. When approaching it from the Kelowna side it is as if you are entering a third world state. Why hasn't some of the road levy been used to finally address this once and for all? You mention in your response that that corridor is being looked at within the Lake Country Business Park planning and the MoTI regional transportation study, and that it could change significantly in the next few years... seriously, years?? I would think something like a simple repaving of a relatively small section would take precedence over some artwork along the west side of Wood Lake. on Linkedin Email I am echoing the comments made by LC Member 101 regarding the condition of Glenmore Road. It is beyond ridiculous and is a real embarrassment for Lake Country. When approaching it from the Kelowna side it is as if you are entering a third world state. Why hasn't some of the road levy been used to finally address this once and for all? You mention in your response that that corridor is being looked at within the Lake Country Business Park planning and the MoTI regional transportation study, and that it could change significantly in the next few years... seriously, years?? I would think something like a simple repaving of a relatively small section would take precedence over some artwork along the west side of Wood Lake. link

    I am echoing the comments made by LC Member 101 regarding the condition of Glenmore Road. It is beyond ridiculous and is a real embarrassment for Lake Country. When approaching it from the Kelowna side it is as if you are entering a third world state. Why hasn't some of the road levy been used to finally address this once and for all? You mention in your response that that corridor is being looked at within the Lake Country Business Park planning and the MoTI regional transportation study, and that it could change significantly in the next few years... seriously, years?? I would think something like a simple repaving of a relatively small section would take precedence over some artwork along the west side of Wood Lake.

    PT asked over 1 year ago

    Thank you for your comments, they will be passed onto Council for consideration.

  • Share In the proposed 17% property tax budget can you let the public know the proposed percent salary increases for the union staff, non-union staff and management staff. I have reviewed all the public documents but cannot locate this important information. Thank you. on Facebook Share In the proposed 17% property tax budget can you let the public know the proposed percent salary increases for the union staff, non-union staff and management staff. I have reviewed all the public documents but cannot locate this important information. Thank you. on Twitter Share In the proposed 17% property tax budget can you let the public know the proposed percent salary increases for the union staff, non-union staff and management staff. I have reviewed all the public documents but cannot locate this important information. Thank you. on Linkedin Email In the proposed 17% property tax budget can you let the public know the proposed percent salary increases for the union staff, non-union staff and management staff. I have reviewed all the public documents but cannot locate this important information. Thank you. link

    In the proposed 17% property tax budget can you let the public know the proposed percent salary increases for the union staff, non-union staff and management staff. I have reviewed all the public documents but cannot locate this important information. Thank you.

    John S asked almost 2 years ago

    Thank you for the question. 

    The 2023 increase for unionized staff is 2.25% as per the collective agreement found here: https://cupe338.ca/files/2021/06/District-of-Lake-Country-Jan-1-2020-to-Dec-31-2024.pdf. 

    While not finalized, the exempt group increase is currently included based on an estimated average amount of 4.0% based on the 2023 projected average salary increase from the Compensation Planning Outlook Pulse Check Survey per the Conference Board of Canada

  • Share What is the District of Lake Country planning on doing on the BC Government Grant that is to be used for infrastructure, recreational facilities, etc. on Facebook Share What is the District of Lake Country planning on doing on the BC Government Grant that is to be used for infrastructure, recreational facilities, etc. on Twitter Share What is the District of Lake Country planning on doing on the BC Government Grant that is to be used for infrastructure, recreational facilities, etc. on Linkedin Email What is the District of Lake Country planning on doing on the BC Government Grant that is to be used for infrastructure, recreational facilities, etc. link

    What is the District of Lake Country planning on doing on the BC Government Grant that is to be used for infrastructure, recreational facilities, etc.

    Mee asked almost 2 years ago

    Thank you for the question.

    Funding for municipalities, announced by the Province on February 10th will be determined based on municipalities population sometime in March. The District is unaware of the amount that Lake Country will qualify for however once the amount is made known, Council will be able to decide how the funds could be used based on the spending parameters given by the Province. 

  • Share Will the proposed tax increase (20% cited in local media) take into consideration DLC offloading certain utility costs from the tax notice in 2022 onto the quarterly utility bill? For example will the overall 2023 tax increase be 20%ish over the prior years municipal parcel tax and we can still expect increases to utility costs now billed separately? on Facebook Share Will the proposed tax increase (20% cited in local media) take into consideration DLC offloading certain utility costs from the tax notice in 2022 onto the quarterly utility bill? For example will the overall 2023 tax increase be 20%ish over the prior years municipal parcel tax and we can still expect increases to utility costs now billed separately? on Twitter Share Will the proposed tax increase (20% cited in local media) take into consideration DLC offloading certain utility costs from the tax notice in 2022 onto the quarterly utility bill? For example will the overall 2023 tax increase be 20%ish over the prior years municipal parcel tax and we can still expect increases to utility costs now billed separately? on Linkedin Email Will the proposed tax increase (20% cited in local media) take into consideration DLC offloading certain utility costs from the tax notice in 2022 onto the quarterly utility bill? For example will the overall 2023 tax increase be 20%ish over the prior years municipal parcel tax and we can still expect increases to utility costs now billed separately? link

    Will the proposed tax increase (20% cited in local media) take into consideration DLC offloading certain utility costs from the tax notice in 2022 onto the quarterly utility bill? For example will the overall 2023 tax increase be 20%ish over the prior years municipal parcel tax and we can still expect increases to utility costs now billed separately?

    PJ asked almost 2 years ago

    Thank you for the question.

    The proposed tax increase at first reading is 17.05%. When the increase is adopted by Council in March (the percentage might change depending on the outcome of 2nd and 3rd reading on February 23rd) the increase is separate to utility costs that are reflected in the quarterly utility bill. Water rate increases will be considered later in 2023, once Council reviews the updated water master plan which is currently being completed.

  • Share Considering previous rcmp funding reduction levels were anticipated a reserve fund was established to prepare for, and cushion the impact of such increases for the district?. What is the status of that reserve now? Was it effective before now? Can an instrument such as that be utilized to spread out the impact of the change about to hit? Can the operation budget part of the buget of the RCMP be slowed over time to lessen the impact? Alan G on Facebook Share Considering previous rcmp funding reduction levels were anticipated a reserve fund was established to prepare for, and cushion the impact of such increases for the district?. What is the status of that reserve now? Was it effective before now? Can an instrument such as that be utilized to spread out the impact of the change about to hit? Can the operation budget part of the buget of the RCMP be slowed over time to lessen the impact? Alan G on Twitter Share Considering previous rcmp funding reduction levels were anticipated a reserve fund was established to prepare for, and cushion the impact of such increases for the district?. What is the status of that reserve now? Was it effective before now? Can an instrument such as that be utilized to spread out the impact of the change about to hit? Can the operation budget part of the buget of the RCMP be slowed over time to lessen the impact? Alan G on Linkedin Email Considering previous rcmp funding reduction levels were anticipated a reserve fund was established to prepare for, and cushion the impact of such increases for the district?. What is the status of that reserve now? Was it effective before now? Can an instrument such as that be utilized to spread out the impact of the change about to hit? Can the operation budget part of the buget of the RCMP be slowed over time to lessen the impact? Alan G link

    Considering previous rcmp funding reduction levels were anticipated a reserve fund was established to prepare for, and cushion the impact of such increases for the district?. What is the status of that reserve now? Was it effective before now? Can an instrument such as that be utilized to spread out the impact of the change about to hit? Can the operation budget part of the buget of the RCMP be slowed over time to lessen the impact? Alan G

    alan asked almost 2 years ago

    Thank you for the question.

    As this significant change was anticipated, the policing reserve fund was bolstered over the past few years resulting approximately $1.5 million available for Council to smooth out the impact of the increase if desired. However, it is important to note that while the reserve could be used to smooth the increase, it cannot be used to make the increase go away as once the reserve runs out the new increased expense amount still needs to be funded through additional taxation. Having this reserve available resulted staff presenting Council with two options, Option A which takes on the bulk of the increase in 2023, with smaller increases over the upcoming 5 years to deal with increasing the budgeted RCMP members from 18 to 24 and Option B which would utilize the reserve to smooth the increase over the next 5 years in addition to funding the additional officers. 

    The other factor impacting this decision is that the old bank building currently being utilized by the RCMP is not meeting the current needs of the current size of the detachment, and is certainly not suitable for a larger force required to serve a larger community and as such a new facility is likely required in the near to medium term. By taking on the larger increase in 2023 and not only preserving the policing reserve but actually continuing to grow it, it would mean that some funds would be available towards a new facility in a few years time. While it would not be enough to cover the entire cost of a building, having funds earning investment income and paying for the portion of the building vs. borrowing more at the time at higher interest rates means there is a cost to using the policing reserve as well. Under the 90% funding model the District is also responsible for a number of direct costs such as vehicles, equipment, major crimes investigations etc. which having money in the reserve is necessary as well. 

    At first reading (subject to change in 2nd & 3rd reading based on public input) Council went with a modified version of Option A where the dollar impact of 70% to 90% would be taken on in 2023 however the increase in RCMP members from 18 to 19 was delayed, updating the schedule in moving from 18 officers to 24 to 2 additional members in 2024, 1 in 2025 & 2026 and 2 more in 2027.

  • Share How long is it going to take you guys to fix glenmore rd. This is getting really ridiculous and I’m trying not to cuss in this but your guys really gotta get your shit together… on Facebook Share How long is it going to take you guys to fix glenmore rd. This is getting really ridiculous and I’m trying not to cuss in this but your guys really gotta get your shit together… on Twitter Share How long is it going to take you guys to fix glenmore rd. This is getting really ridiculous and I’m trying not to cuss in this but your guys really gotta get your shit together… on Linkedin Email How long is it going to take you guys to fix glenmore rd. This is getting really ridiculous and I’m trying not to cuss in this but your guys really gotta get your shit together… link

    How long is it going to take you guys to fix glenmore rd. This is getting really ridiculous and I’m trying not to cuss in this but your guys really gotta get your shit together…

    LC Member 101 asked almost 2 years ago

    Thank you for the question.

    A section of Glenmore road was overlayed last year as part of the Interim Pavement Renewal program, further works will continue operationally this season as budget and capacity allow. The Glenmore Road corridor is being looked at as part of the Lake Country Business Park planning and the MoTI regional transportation study. Both of these initiatives could have significant impact on the corridor over the next few years.