Council has made significant adjustments to the City budget and 2020 tax levy in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Council reduced the tax levy increase nearly by half from a 3.44% increase approved prior to the pandemic to 1.75%. This levy will ensure the City can maintain services in key areas, and even enhance some important services, particularly the improvement of security, health, and safety in the community.
Council has approved various measures related to the 2020 budget, property taxes, and utility billing:
- Deferring nearly $25 million in capital projects.
- Eliminating the 10% penalty on late sewer, water, and solid waste utility payments for the period of July 1 to December 31, 2020.
- Cost of living increases have been frozen for the Mayor, Members of Council, and City management.
Service enhancements aimed at improving safety, cleanliness, and security downtown are proceeding in 2020. These include providing for additional police, security, and bylaw services personnel for the area; funding for homeless service hubs; and increased resources for removing illegal camps and dumpsites.
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