This has been, for local taxpayers, a year where every local government is increasing taxes to support ever increasing budgets.
The Islands Trust increase was finalized at 5.9%.
The Regional District of Nanaimo increase will be 8.6%.
The Hospital Board increase will be 21%.
And the Gabriola Fire Protection Improvement District increase will be 37.5%.
Each of these local governments has reasons for their increases.
Each local government holds their own ‘engagement’ process going into their respective budget process.
There are those who feel there should be a better way for those who pay local taxes to be able to have discussions around these increase. And to ask questions about the ways priorities are being set.
Once upon a time, Gabriola had a Ratepayers Association.
It provided such a place for people to voice their concerns, and have that feedback given to the local governments.
This may be a time for a reboot of such an organization.
Recent Comments