For Immediate Release
February 26, 2025
Public input sought on 2025 Operating Budget and 2025-2029 Capital Plan
The Town of Oliver is seeking public input from residents until March 25th, on Municipal Spending Priorities for 2025 as part of the annual budget engagement process.
During the Special Open Budget Meeting on February 24th, (found here https://pub-oliver.escribemeetings.com) the 2025 Provisional Operating Budget and the 2025-2029 Capital Plan were presented to Council. The proposed budget includes a 5% increase in property tax funding, along with revenue and expenditure considerations in a time of rising costs and service delivery challenges.
At the meeting, different scenarios for the 2025 tax rate multipliers were discussed in order to help mitigate the tax impact on business and light industry classes. Business and light industry experienced a substantial increase in 2025 property assessments compared to residential properties. Using a similar tax rate multiplier as 2024 for these two classes would significantly increase their 2025 property tax billing. Reducing the 2025 tax rate multiplier for the business and light industry classes would result in an increase to residential property taxes.
You can watch a recording of the previous four Special Open Budget Meetings and the Regular Open Council meeting on the Town’s website. (https://pub-oliver.escribemeetings.com)
Council’s final review of the 2025-2029 Financial Plan, including the property tax increase, will be on the agenda for the Regular Open Council meeting on Monday, March 31st at 7:00pm. Public feedback in advance of the meeting will help inform Council’s decision.
Residents can participate and provide feedback by:
1. Attending Coffee with Council on Wednesday, March 5, 2025 at the Ditch Café from 9:30am – 11:00am
2. Contact Mayor and Council (admin@oliver.ca)
3. Complete an online comment form (https://www.oliver.ca/budget2025)
4. Drop off your written comments or letter at Town Hall
Inquiries:
Town of Oliver
250.485.6200
