The qathet Regional District has officially adopted this year’s budget and financial plan.
The district board of directors adopted these items on Wednesday’s Board Meeting, with the 2025 budget to total $27.9 million dollars. The plan will outlay the budgets for all regional services for the next five years.
The budget includes $17 million in the net operating budget, $6.9 million in capital spending, and $4 million from total debt payments and transfers to reserves.
Board Chair Clay Brander says with factors like inflation affecting those in the region, the district hopes by sharing costs as a community, it can keep essential services more affordable.
“In times of crisis, we appreciate emergency preparedness, fire services, and 911 services, but we need to recognize that these services come with a cost,” said Brander.
“As elected officials and staff, we live in these communities too and experience the same tax impacts as you—we are not immune to them. Unfortunately, there’s no simple way to reduce taxation.”
Brander hopes with the budget and plan, it can ensure sustainability, lowers potential future borrowing costs, and prevent placing a burden on future generations.
The district adds they’ve received $4.6 million in funding to help with several projects planned for this year.
These include updating the Savary Island Community Plan, replacing the concession roof and doors at Palm Beach Park, installing fire protection at the Savary Island Wharf, replacing a fire engine for Northside Fire Protection service, and constructing the Northside Community Recreation Centre.
To see the list of planned projects, click here.
