by Steve Kidd - Penticton Western News posted Jun 12, 2014 at 4:00 PM— updated Jul 11, 2014 at 9:21 PM
The City of Penticton is going to be shelling out about $12,000 to correct a mistake on the 2014 tax notices mailed out to property owners. The first tax bills sent out for 2014 featured the wrong school district — Okanagan Similkameen rather than Okanagan Skaha — with the result that the calculations of total taxes were higher than they should have been. “It was an administrative error,” said Simone Blais, the city’s communication officer, explaining that a staff member chose the wrong line from a list of school districts and corresponding tax rates. “From what I understand the bottom of the page had Okanagan Similkameen, but they didn’t flip the page to see Okanagan Skaha,” said Blais. Amended property tax notices will be mailed out as soon as possible, and property owners are asked to refer to the “amended tax notice” only for the correct amount. In the interim, those who go to the front counter at city hall will have their taxes recalculated automatically. “We sincerely apologize to affected property owners for the error, and regret any inconvenience or confusion this may cause,” said Colin Fisher, chief financial officer. “It is critical that property owners be charged only the amount necessary, and the city’s revenue services team is working swiftly to correct the error for all of our customers.” According to Blais, the new tax notices are all lower than the first notices, though how much lower depends on the assessed value of the property. But reaction from people presented with a lower amount when paying their taxes, she continued, has been positive, with one customer even saying it was like Christmas. However, the mistake comes with a price tag for the city. Blais said mailing out a new set of tax notices is costing about $12,000. “When we look at how important it is to keep our taxpayers in the loop it was decided it was warranted,” said Blais. “It is the only way to 100 per cent guarantee that everyone is notified of the change.” Along with sending out the new tax notices, the city will be directly contacting people who paid their taxes before the mistake was noticed. They will be offered a choice of rebate options. “We can send them a refund or apply that amount to next year’s account so it is a bit of a prepayment. But it is up to them,” said Blais. People who use MyCity to claim their provincial home owner grant are asked to check the welcome screen message for information. E-bill customers using the MyCity online tax notice portal are asked to use the most recent tax notice dated June 11.
Taxpayers who have been following the Multimaterials B.C. recycling program (MMBC) changeover may be surprised to still see a recycling charge on their tax notice. The reasons are twofold, according to Blais. “We don’t know the final incentive amount. The second piece is we are not entirely sure how the program is going to play out,” said Blais. “That all could impact our rate in terms of whether or not we are receiving that financial incentive or going on our own. According to Blais, city council considered whether to use the incentive and decrease the rate now, potentially increasing it again later, but decided it would be better to stay the course and put whatever incentive funds are received aside for future use in education or other programs to fortify the recycling program.
Showing posts with label 2014 taxes. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2014 taxes. Show all posts
Sunday, July 13, 2014
Tuesday, April 29, 2014
Sunday transit service expands in Vernon
by Staff Writer - Vernon Morning Star posted Apr 28, 2014 at 9:00 AM— updated Apr 28, 2014 at 10:05 AM
Effective May 4, B.C. Transit customers in Vernon will enjoy longer Sunday service hours and more statutory holiday coverage. Sunday transit hours on routes two through seven will run from 8 am to 7 p.m. "That’s about five extra hours of service on each route. Customers on the route eight Bella Vista will also enjoy longer Sunday service hours from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.," said Meribeth Burton, B.C. Transit spokesperson. Vernon is also expanding its statutory holiday coverage. At this time, riders on routes one through eight will have Sunday service levels on Canada Day and Remembrance Day. Added to that, customers on routes two through eight will benefit from Sunday service levels on Victoria Day, B.C. Day, Labour Day and Easter Monday. For more information on schedules and routes consult www.bctransit.com/regions/ver/ or contact your local transit provider at 250-545-7221.
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This service extension was approved in the 2014 budget. The 2014 portion will be taken from the transit reserve but the estimated $71,828 will be added to 2105 taxes and thereafter.
Effective May 4, B.C. Transit customers in Vernon will enjoy longer Sunday service hours and more statutory holiday coverage. Sunday transit hours on routes two through seven will run from 8 am to 7 p.m. "That’s about five extra hours of service on each route. Customers on the route eight Bella Vista will also enjoy longer Sunday service hours from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.," said Meribeth Burton, B.C. Transit spokesperson. Vernon is also expanding its statutory holiday coverage. At this time, riders on routes one through eight will have Sunday service levels on Canada Day and Remembrance Day. Added to that, customers on routes two through eight will benefit from Sunday service levels on Victoria Day, B.C. Day, Labour Day and Easter Monday. For more information on schedules and routes consult www.bctransit.com/regions/ver/ or contact your local transit provider at 250-545-7221.
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This service extension was approved in the 2014 budget. The 2014 portion will be taken from the transit reserve but the estimated $71,828 will be added to 2105 taxes and thereafter.
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| http://www.vernon.ca/services/finance/documents/Adopted_2014-2018_Financial_Plan.pdf (p525) |
Sunday, April 27, 2014
2014 Taxes Same Assessed Property in COLDSTREAM compared to VERNON -- 2014
This is a comparison of total property taxes for the same assessed property for 2014 as compared to 2013. By using both calculators you can ascertain the property tax treatment of your residential property whether you live in Coldstream or Vernon. The City of Vernon has their online Calculator at http://www.vernon.ca/services/finance/property_tax_estimator.html (small 7 cent difference due to rounding)
These calculations come from D.Q.'s Vernon Online Calculator and Coldstream Online Calculator with a school tax increase 1%. (Calculators updated for school tax increase and s/b final.)
In 2013 this Vernon Taxpayer paid $356.32 more than in Coldstream.
In 2014 this Vernon Taxpayer will pay $427.96 more than in Coldstream.
Everyones property taxes depending on assessment changes and totals will vary.
These calculations come from D.Q.'s Vernon Online Calculator and Coldstream Online Calculator with a school tax increase 1%. (Calculators updated for school tax increase and s/b final.)
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| Vernon Online Calculator |
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| Coldstream Online Calculator |
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| City Of Vernon Calculator |
In 2013 this Vernon Taxpayer paid $356.32 more than in Coldstream.
In 2014 this Vernon Taxpayer will pay $427.96 more than in Coldstream.
Everyones property taxes depending on assessment changes and totals will vary.
Monday, April 21, 2014
2014 Property Tax Calculators Online (Plug in your 2013 and 2014 assessments and Calculators will do the Rest)
- City of Vernon Residential Property Tax Calculator. (The 2014 Provincial School tax rate has not been received to date. This tax calculator will be updated in May when the Provincial School tax rates are known.) http://www.vernon.ca/services/finance/property_tax_estimator.html
The rates in this calculator are from the Rates Bylaw that will be presented at Council and probably adopted at a special meeting that will be held Tuesday Apr. 22 at 9 AM.
Saturday, April 19, 2014
Effect of Parks Taxation being switched from RDNO to City of Vernon.
http://www.vernon.ca/services/finance/property_tax_estimator.html
The Vernon 2014 tax Calculator is online at the above link. A major effect on your taxes will be the shift of the Parks expenses from RDNO where it was taxed as Improvements Only to Vernon where it is required to be charged on BOTH Land & Improvements.
To illustrate the effect on the Average Residential Property for 2013 (158,100 land - 164,049 Imp- Total 322,149) and the average property in 2014 (155,920 land - 161,230 Imp- Total 317, 150). we have shown below the comparison to a LAND ONLY comparison and/or an IMPROVEMENT ONLY comparison to illustrate the range.
Note that the Municipal Taxes do not change between the 3 examples but the Regional District changes are varied from an increase of $5.30 in the Land Only scenario to a decrease of $110.79 in the Improvements only scenario. As expected the the 49% land - 51% improvements scenario appears about in the middle with a $54.16 decrease at the RDNO level.
Also Note School Tax Rate Note: The 2014 Provincial School tax rate has not been received to date. The supposed $11.33 decrease will likely disappear and I am predicting a 2% or $3.04 increase. This net increase will be $14.37 to be added to all the scenarios and a resulting change in totals and %ages but the relative relationship will remain about the same.
The Vernon 2014 tax Calculator is online at the above link. A major effect on your taxes will be the shift of the Parks expenses from RDNO where it was taxed as Improvements Only to Vernon where it is required to be charged on BOTH Land & Improvements.
To illustrate the effect on the Average Residential Property for 2013 (158,100 land - 164,049 Imp- Total 322,149) and the average property in 2014 (155,920 land - 161,230 Imp- Total 317, 150). we have shown below the comparison to a LAND ONLY comparison and/or an IMPROVEMENT ONLY comparison to illustrate the range.
Note that the Municipal Taxes do not change between the 3 examples but the Regional District changes are varied from an increase of $5.30 in the Land Only scenario to a decrease of $110.79 in the Improvements only scenario. As expected the the 49% land - 51% improvements scenario appears about in the middle with a $54.16 decrease at the RDNO level.
Also Note School Tax Rate Note: The 2014 Provincial School tax rate has not been received to date. The supposed $11.33 decrease will likely disappear and I am predicting a 2% or $3.04 increase. This net increase will be $14.37 to be added to all the scenarios and a resulting change in totals and %ages but the relative relationship will remain about the same.
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| Average Res. Property 49% Land- 51 % Improvements. (Est. Tax Increase $32.24 1.4%) |
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| Average Res. Property 100% Land- 0 % Improvements. (Est. Tax Increase $91.35 4.6%) |
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| Average Res. Property 0% Land- 100 % Improvements. (Est. Tax Decrease $24.73 -1.0%) |
Friday, April 18, 2014
2014 Property Tax Calculator for Vernon Residential & Business (Class 6) already ONLINE.
http://www.vernon.ca/services/finance/property_tax_estimator.html
Below is a screen shot from a Residential Average Property for 2013 (158,100 land - 164,049 Imp- Total 322,149) and the average property in 2014 (155,920 land - 161,230 Imp- Total 317, 150). There appears to be a 1.4% Tax increase ($31.89). Note that there has being no tax increase rate for School Levy as School Levy not available yet. (If the actual $ difference comes in at 0$ this will increase the projected net tax increase to 1.92% ($43.57)
Go to the calculator Link and estimate your 2012 Residential or Business Taxes.
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The rates in this calculator are from the Rates Bylaw that will be presented at Council at a special meeting that will be held Tuesday Apr. 22 at 9 AM.
Below is a screen shot from a Residential Average Property for 2013 (158,100 land - 164,049 Imp- Total 322,149) and the average property in 2014 (155,920 land - 161,230 Imp- Total 317, 150). There appears to be a 1.4% Tax increase ($31.89). Note that there has being no tax increase rate for School Levy as School Levy not available yet. (If the actual $ difference comes in at 0$ this will increase the projected net tax increase to 1.92% ($43.57)
Go to the calculator Link and estimate your 2012 Residential or Business Taxes.
The rates in this calculator are from the Rates Bylaw that will be presented at Council at a special meeting that will be held Tuesday Apr. 22 at 9 AM.
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
Cheaper Parking Option For Downtown
Written by Peter McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM Tuesday, 15 April 2014 06:00
Vernon council has provided another cheaper option for parking in the downtown, but some say it's not enough. The meters will stay at $1 an hour, but the Parkade will be reduced from 75 cents, to 50 cents an hour, same as the parking lot on 29th Street. Councillor Brian Quiring would have preferred lower meter rates outside of the core, but he realizes that would have been a big hit on the budget. "The next budget, we're going to have to revisit it because I think right now we're doing a disservice to the downtown. Parking is just too expensive," says Quiring. Staff presented council with eight options to consider including making no changes. Councillor Bob Spiers was satisfied with council's decision. "It sound like a great compromise," Spiers tells Kiss FM. Mayor Ron Sawatzky was also content. "It gives people some options," says Sawatzky. An idea to reduce the meters outside the 30th Avenue zone to 50 cents an hour, would have cut potential revenues by 190-thousand dollars.
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Don Quixote Note: The actual motion passed provides 3 lots (Parkade, CSB and 29th st. Parking Lots) in downtown area at the 50 cents an hour rate. One time Cost to the taxpayer will be $7000 that will come from existing budget. (Maybe from reserves?)(Free parking is available Saturdays and Sundays in the City’s CSB and 29 Avenue parking lots and the Parkade.)
Vernon council has provided another cheaper option for parking in the downtown, but some say it's not enough. The meters will stay at $1 an hour, but the Parkade will be reduced from 75 cents, to 50 cents an hour, same as the parking lot on 29th Street. Councillor Brian Quiring would have preferred lower meter rates outside of the core, but he realizes that would have been a big hit on the budget. "The next budget, we're going to have to revisit it because I think right now we're doing a disservice to the downtown. Parking is just too expensive," says Quiring. Staff presented council with eight options to consider including making no changes. Councillor Bob Spiers was satisfied with council's decision. "It sound like a great compromise," Spiers tells Kiss FM. Mayor Ron Sawatzky was also content. "It gives people some options," says Sawatzky. An idea to reduce the meters outside the 30th Avenue zone to 50 cents an hour, would have cut potential revenues by 190-thousand dollars.
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Don Quixote Note: The actual motion passed provides 3 lots (Parkade, CSB and 29th st. Parking Lots) in downtown area at the 50 cents an hour rate. One time Cost to the taxpayer will be $7000 that will come from existing budget. (Maybe from reserves?)(Free parking is available Saturdays and Sundays in the City’s CSB and 29 Avenue parking lots and the Parkade.)
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
Parking Fee Options Considered
Written by Peter McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM Tuesday, 25 March 2014 06:00
City staff will take a closer look at the options for parking meter fees in downtown Vernon. The current dollar an hour rates have upset some merchants and drivers since taking effect last year, and varied rates outside of 30th Avenue, will be explored. Mayor Rob Sawatzky is concerned reducing the rates could cut up to $190,000 from annual revenues. "There are consequences to doing that and they are pretty significant. We run a very tight budget and there folks who want more amenities and services, and reducing parking rates, reduces that," says Sawatzky. Administrator Will Pearce warned council any changes to the fees would likely affect the tax rate, to keep the budget balanced, although surplus funds could be another option. Councillor Juliette Cunningham says businesses have given their input. "We know that a lot of them are hurting. It's not always easy to assess the reason for that, but we've heard quite clearly that parking is having an impact," says Cunningham who has owned a business downtown for 24 years. Councillor Mary Jo O'Keefe says she supports keeping the higher rates in the high occupancy areas, saying that keeps the vehicles moving. Councillor Brian Quiring says if the fees are lowered, parking fines should be doubled. "If people are abusing them, then slam them," he said. "I feel like we made a mistake. We're hitting the downtown negatively," added Quiring about having the $1 an hour rates in all meters, going against what a consultant recommended when council was originally looking into the issue.
City staff will take a closer look at the options for parking meter fees in downtown Vernon. The current dollar an hour rates have upset some merchants and drivers since taking effect last year, and varied rates outside of 30th Avenue, will be explored. Mayor Rob Sawatzky is concerned reducing the rates could cut up to $190,000 from annual revenues. "There are consequences to doing that and they are pretty significant. We run a very tight budget and there folks who want more amenities and services, and reducing parking rates, reduces that," says Sawatzky. Administrator Will Pearce warned council any changes to the fees would likely affect the tax rate, to keep the budget balanced, although surplus funds could be another option. Councillor Juliette Cunningham says businesses have given their input. "We know that a lot of them are hurting. It's not always easy to assess the reason for that, but we've heard quite clearly that parking is having an impact," says Cunningham who has owned a business downtown for 24 years. Councillor Mary Jo O'Keefe says she supports keeping the higher rates in the high occupancy areas, saying that keeps the vehicles moving. Councillor Brian Quiring says if the fees are lowered, parking fines should be doubled. "If people are abusing them, then slam them," he said. "I feel like we made a mistake. We're hitting the downtown negatively," added Quiring about having the $1 an hour rates in all meters, going against what a consultant recommended when council was originally looking into the issue.
Friday, February 28, 2014
Parks agreement nearing finish line
by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Feb 2, 2014 at 1:00 AM— updated Feb 28, 2014 at 3:41 PM
Greater Vernon officials have authored a new relationship but the seal of approval is still needed. The Ministry of Community Development has still not signed off on new bylaws to restructure how parks and recreational facilities operate. “We’d like to have a meeting with the minister to make sure this is expedited,” said director Jim Garlick. “We want to make sure we meet all of the requirements.” Under the agreements, some parks will remain part of a collective that all jurisdictions fund while the majority will become the responsibility of Coldstream, Vernon and the electoral areas individually. Facilities were taken out of the bylaws because they will now be administered by the City of Vernon, although Coldstream and the electoral areas will continue to provide operational funds. Director Rob Sawatzky believes it’s critical for the ministry to approve the new structure. “The first agreement was signed (by the parties) in November 2012 and they were supposed to take effect in January 2014. We’re well past the ideal time for that,” he said. “There’s lots of other work that needs to go on and this needs to be done.” The goal is to have the matter resolved long before November’s civic elections when a new group of politicians could possibly revisit the matter if there is no ministry approval. “When things are not solidified in a term, problems can arise,” said Garlick.
Greater Vernon officials have authored a new relationship but the seal of approval is still needed. The Ministry of Community Development has still not signed off on new bylaws to restructure how parks and recreational facilities operate. “We’d like to have a meeting with the minister to make sure this is expedited,” said director Jim Garlick. “We want to make sure we meet all of the requirements.” Under the agreements, some parks will remain part of a collective that all jurisdictions fund while the majority will become the responsibility of Coldstream, Vernon and the electoral areas individually. Facilities were taken out of the bylaws because they will now be administered by the City of Vernon, although Coldstream and the electoral areas will continue to provide operational funds. Director Rob Sawatzky believes it’s critical for the ministry to approve the new structure. “The first agreement was signed (by the parties) in November 2012 and they were supposed to take effect in January 2014. We’re well past the ideal time for that,” he said. “There’s lots of other work that needs to go on and this needs to be done.” The goal is to have the matter resolved long before November’s civic elections when a new group of politicians could possibly revisit the matter if there is no ministry approval. “When things are not solidified in a term, problems can arise,” said Garlick.
Sunday, February 16, 2014
Coldstream to Consider Farm Tax Ratio Change at COW meeting Monday
https://coldstream.civicweb.net/Documents/DocumentList.aspx?ID=13156
4.d. Tax Multipliers - Farm Property
Report from the Director of Financial Administration dated February 10, 2014
Report from Director of Financial Administration dated February 10, 2014.pdf
Comment: Staff has requested that the Committee recommend to Council one of the options put forth in the report dated February 10, 2014.
4.d. Tax Multipliers - Farm Property
Report from the Director of Financial Administration dated February 10, 2014
Report from Director of Financial Administration dated February 10, 2014.pdf
Comment: Staff has requested that the Committee recommend to Council one of the options put forth in the report dated February 10, 2014.
Friday, February 07, 2014
Open House on the Proposed 2014 - 2018 Financial Plan (COLDSTREAM)
In accordance with Section 166 of the Community Charter, the District of Coldstream will be holding an open house on the proposed 2014 – 2018 Financial Plan.
TIME AND PLACE:
6:00 – 9:00 pm, Tuesday, February 18, 2014
Council Chambers, 9901 Kalamalka Road
All residents of Coldstream are invited to attend and review the Plan. Council and staff will be present to answer questions and receive comments and input from the residents on the proposed plan. Click here to download the Plan or pick up a copy at the Coldstream Municipal Hall.
Public input on the proposed budget is an important part of the process. There are a couple of ways that the public can provide their comments:
Complete the comments form and drop off at the District office.
Email any comments to treasurer@district.coldstream.bc.ca (please ensure you provide your name and address in the email).
TIME AND PLACE:
6:00 – 9:00 pm, Tuesday, February 18, 2014
Council Chambers, 9901 Kalamalka Road
All residents of Coldstream are invited to attend and review the Plan. Council and staff will be present to answer questions and receive comments and input from the residents on the proposed plan. Click here to download the Plan or pick up a copy at the Coldstream Municipal Hall.
Public input on the proposed budget is an important part of the process. There are a couple of ways that the public can provide their comments:
Complete the comments form and drop off at the District office.
Email any comments to treasurer@district.coldstream.bc.ca (please ensure you provide your name and address in the email).
Friday, January 31, 2014
Council gives nod to tax increase
by Jennifer Smith - Vernon Morning Star posted Jan 31, 2014 at 1:00 AM
Coldstream taxes are expected to rise two per cent for 2014 – which works out to an extra $20/year for the average home (valued at $447,000). The public will have a chance to review Coldstream’s budget at an open house Feb. 18 at the municipal hall from 6 to 9 p.m. The increase in taxes will help cover operational costs (0.3 per cent), future parks capital works (0.7 per cent) and infrastructure reserves - pavement management plan (one per cent). Coldstream’s newly hired financial administrator applauds council’s work to put funds aside for future needs. “As I’ve seen in other communities, it’s very difficult to put money into reserves and I see the efforts this council has made,” said Patricia Higgins. As part of the budget’s 2014 pavement management, the following roads are getting some attention: Cypress Drive, Petworth Road, Husband Road, Springfield Road and Aberdeen Road. Staff will also be investigating the feasibility of including College Way (from Kickwillie Loop to Highway 97) and Kidston Road (near Creekside Park). Any further available funds will be allocated to: Cosens Bay Road, Palfrey Drive West, Wyatt Court, Cunliffe Road and Buchanan Road. The coming year will also see a new parks landscape maintenance company, with the restructuring of parks. The district has awarded the a three-year contract to Royal Landscape Maintenance (Kelowna) for their lowest bid of $573,999. A contract for parks washroom cleaning is still being discussed, as one councillor would like a local submission considered. The Lavington Community Association bid to look after the facilities in Lavington Park, but that did not comply with the requirements of the request for proposals.
Coldstream taxes are expected to rise two per cent for 2014 – which works out to an extra $20/year for the average home (valued at $447,000). The public will have a chance to review Coldstream’s budget at an open house Feb. 18 at the municipal hall from 6 to 9 p.m. The increase in taxes will help cover operational costs (0.3 per cent), future parks capital works (0.7 per cent) and infrastructure reserves - pavement management plan (one per cent). Coldstream’s newly hired financial administrator applauds council’s work to put funds aside for future needs. “As I’ve seen in other communities, it’s very difficult to put money into reserves and I see the efforts this council has made,” said Patricia Higgins. As part of the budget’s 2014 pavement management, the following roads are getting some attention: Cypress Drive, Petworth Road, Husband Road, Springfield Road and Aberdeen Road. Staff will also be investigating the feasibility of including College Way (from Kickwillie Loop to Highway 97) and Kidston Road (near Creekside Park). Any further available funds will be allocated to: Cosens Bay Road, Palfrey Drive West, Wyatt Court, Cunliffe Road and Buchanan Road. The coming year will also see a new parks landscape maintenance company, with the restructuring of parks. The district has awarded the a three-year contract to Royal Landscape Maintenance (Kelowna) for their lowest bid of $573,999. A contract for parks washroom cleaning is still being discussed, as one councillor would like a local submission considered. The Lavington Community Association bid to look after the facilities in Lavington Park, but that did not comply with the requirements of the request for proposals.
Tuesday, January 07, 2014
Total Assessment $ Changes for both Residential and Business for 2013. (2014 tax year use)
This map shows the total change for all property types within each property classification between the 2013 and 2014 Assessment Rolls.Change in the Assessment Roll:
Specific property types within a Classification may have changed differently for this period. For example, the Residential Classification includes: Single and multi-family dwellings, residential strata, rental apartment buildings, vacant and development lands. Similarly, the Business and Other Classification includes: Industrial, Commercial, and other Investment types of properties.
Friday, January 03, 2014
Assessments in Okanagan - 2014 vs 2013
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| North Okanagan Assessments |
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| Central Okanagan Assessments |
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| South OkanaganAssessments |
Don Quixote Note: COLDSTREAM & KELOWNA have the identical average assessment for residential property of $493,000. Also that in the Okanagan's top 100 valued properties Coldstream has 4 in top 100 including 1 in top 10, (Vernon has 0, Penticton has 1). Note also that for strata property Vernon's assessment value of $173,000 is much more affordable than Kelowna ($228,000) or Penticton ($217,000).
Thursday, January 02, 2014
2014 B.C. Assessments online
http://evaluebc.bcassessment.ca/Don Quixote Note: My Land value went up $3000 but my improvements went down by same amount. Net
Assessment Notices will be in mail shortly. Online data for 2014 now available.
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| http://www.bcassessment.ca/Assessment%20Roll%20Information/Okanagan%20Top%20Valued%20Residential%20Properties.pdf There are 4 Coldstream Properties in top 100 (None from Vernon) #100 is valued at $3,461,000 |
Wednesday, December 18, 2013
Draft budget targeting tax hike
by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Dec 18, 2013 at 1:00 AM
Vernon residents can expect to pay more in taxes while some city staff are losing their jobs. The draft 2014 budget, which was presented to council Monday, includes staff reductions and a top-end tax hike of 3.7 per cent. “We continue to get our fiscal house in order,” said Will Pearce, chief administrative officer. The 3.7 per cent tax hike is based on 1.8 per cent for operations and 1.9 per cent for infrastructure. However, Pearce cautions that 3.7 per cent — or $31 for the typical home — is just a starting point and that number could be reduced as deliberations continue. Full-time equivalent city employees will go from 249.8 in 2013 to 246.6 in 2014. The loss includes a bylaw compliance officer, a corporate services worker, a building inspector and three positions in parks (two are currently vacant). But a parks planner position has been created while an economic development planner is being hired. Council will discuss the budget during workshops from Jan. 15 to 17 and then three readings for the budget bylaw are expected Jan. 27. Mayor Rob Sawatzky says the draft plan is consistent with council’s directions and he isn’t sure if there can be much movement from a 3.7 per cent tax increase. “There’s been a lot of work in the last year to bring things in tightly,” he said. Coun. Bob Spiers will be spending the next few weeks going over the budget proposal in detail. “I would always like to see it come down,” he said of a tax increase. “If we can get more reductions, why shouldn’t we?” The 2014 budget will reflect the fact that the city is taking over parks and recreation services from the Regional District of North Okanagan. “Vernon property owners will see a dramatic increase in local property tax rates, in the order of 18 to 20 per cent. This should be offset by an equally significant reduction in regional district requisition. It should be very near a wash,” said Pearce.
Monday, December 16, 2013
New City Budget Calls for 3.7% Hike
ONLINE PROPOSED BUDGET
http://www.vernon.ca/services/finance/documents/Proposed2014_2018FinancialPlan.pdf
Written by Peter McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM Monday, 16 December 2013 12:26
City of Vernon staff has presented a budget that calls for a maximum 3.7 percent budget increase. That would mean an extra 31 dollars for the average homeowner. Chief Administrative Officer Will Pearce told council at a special meeting Monday, the draft plan is presented to council for review and direction. "We continue to get our fiscal house in order while increasing commitment in two key areas: economic development and protecting the integrity of our city road system and pipes," said Pearce. Mayor Rob Sawatzky says it remains to be seen if the hike can be lowered. "That will become clearer as council enters discussions. Certainly that (3.7%) fits the direction given by council in the strategic planning and that's consistent with the last two years," says Sawatzky. 1.9 percent of the increase would be infrastructure upgrades, while the other 1.8 percent would be for various division increases. "Collectively the Corporation's operating costs are held to an increase of less than 1.2%," said Pearce. Planned staff reductions include one full time person in bylaws, corporate services, and building inspection, three positions in parks operations, and a reduction of student helper positions from 10 to 5. A parks planner will be created to address new duties under the revised Regional Parks Agreement. Pearce says with the reductions, the city will be down to 246.6 full time equivalents, from 249.8 in 2013 and 252.7 in 2012. Councillor Bob Spiers says he will work to lower the increase. "I always like to see it come down. Without looking at the details, if we can get more reductions, why shouldn't we?" he tells Kiss FM. Spiers says he has to take a closer look at the budget to see what could be trimmed. "I don't think there's as much fat in there as there was before." Council will discuss the budget more at three days of special meetings January 15-17.
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Tax hike and staffing cuts move ahead at Vernon city hall
by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Dec 16, 2013 at 10:00 AM
The City of Vernon has started hammering out its proposed 2014 budget. The draft document, which was presented to council Monday, includes staff reductions and top-end tax hike of 3.7 per cent. "We continue to get our fiscal house in order," said Will Pearce, chief administrative officer. Pearce cautions that a 3.7 per cent tax increase— or $31 for the typical home — is just a starting point and that number could be reduced as deliberations continue. The 3.7 per cent is based on 1.8 per cent for operations and 1.9 per cent for infrastructure. In terms of staffing, full-time equivalent employees will go from 249.8 in 2013 to 246.6 in 2014. The loss include a bylaw compliance officer, a corporate services worker, a building inspector and three positions in parks (two are currently vacant). However, a parks planner position has been created. Look for more details in Wednesday's Morning Star.
http://www.vernon.ca/services/finance/documents/Proposed2014_2018FinancialPlan.pdf
Written by Peter McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM Monday, 16 December 2013 12:26
City of Vernon staff has presented a budget that calls for a maximum 3.7 percent budget increase. That would mean an extra 31 dollars for the average homeowner. Chief Administrative Officer Will Pearce told council at a special meeting Monday, the draft plan is presented to council for review and direction. "We continue to get our fiscal house in order while increasing commitment in two key areas: economic development and protecting the integrity of our city road system and pipes," said Pearce. Mayor Rob Sawatzky says it remains to be seen if the hike can be lowered. "That will become clearer as council enters discussions. Certainly that (3.7%) fits the direction given by council in the strategic planning and that's consistent with the last two years," says Sawatzky. 1.9 percent of the increase would be infrastructure upgrades, while the other 1.8 percent would be for various division increases. "Collectively the Corporation's operating costs are held to an increase of less than 1.2%," said Pearce. Planned staff reductions include one full time person in bylaws, corporate services, and building inspection, three positions in parks operations, and a reduction of student helper positions from 10 to 5. A parks planner will be created to address new duties under the revised Regional Parks Agreement. Pearce says with the reductions, the city will be down to 246.6 full time equivalents, from 249.8 in 2013 and 252.7 in 2012. Councillor Bob Spiers says he will work to lower the increase. "I always like to see it come down. Without looking at the details, if we can get more reductions, why shouldn't we?" he tells Kiss FM. Spiers says he has to take a closer look at the budget to see what could be trimmed. "I don't think there's as much fat in there as there was before." Council will discuss the budget more at three days of special meetings January 15-17.
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Tax hike and staffing cuts move ahead at Vernon city hall
by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Dec 16, 2013 at 10:00 AM
The City of Vernon has started hammering out its proposed 2014 budget. The draft document, which was presented to council Monday, includes staff reductions and top-end tax hike of 3.7 per cent. "We continue to get our fiscal house in order," said Will Pearce, chief administrative officer. Pearce cautions that a 3.7 per cent tax increase— or $31 for the typical home — is just a starting point and that number could be reduced as deliberations continue. The 3.7 per cent is based on 1.8 per cent for operations and 1.9 per cent for infrastructure. In terms of staffing, full-time equivalent employees will go from 249.8 in 2013 to 246.6 in 2014. The loss include a bylaw compliance officer, a corporate services worker, a building inspector and three positions in parks (two are currently vacant). However, a parks planner position has been created. Look for more details in Wednesday's Morning Star.
Saturday, December 14, 2013
Drop in property assessments could lessen blow of tax hikes
SATURDAY, 14 DECEMBER 2013 02:00 RON SEYMOUR Kelowna Daily Courier
Okanagan homeowners may feel their net worth shrinking a bit next month when they open their BC Assessment notice. Preliminary information relayed from the agency to the City of Kelowna indicates the average single-family home has dropped in value by one per cent. The assessed value of an average commercial-class property in Kelowna has declined by two per cent. In Penticton, a typical home has dropped two per cent in value, and the decline is just over two per cent in Vernon. Commercial-class properties in both Penticton and Vernon had declined about half of one per cent. "In general, the assessed values are stable or down only slightly," Tracy Wall of BC Assessment said Friday.The advance information is relayed to municipalities to help them calculate the impact of municipal tax increases planned for the coming year. On Thursday, Kelowna city council approved a 2014 budget that calls for a municipal tax hike of 2.5 per cent. But this increase will be applied only to the owners of homes that have declined in assessed value by the typical average of one per cent. If a person's home has dropped in assessed value by more than one per cent, the owner could wind up paying less municipal tax in 2014 than he or she did this year. Conversely, if a home has increased in value, the owner will get a municipal increase of more than 2.5 per cent. After assessment notices are mailed out in early January, the City of Kelowna puts a property tax estimator on its website. By entering the 2013 and 2014 assessed values for their properties, owners can get an idea of how much municipal tax they will have to pay next summer. Here are the projected tax increases for three typical property types in Kelowna:
- For a single-family home that has dropped one per cent in value to $451,000, the owner will pay $1,731 in municipal taxes, or $42 more than this year.
- For a condominium that has declined in value by one per cent to $205,000, the owner will pay municipal taxes of $786, or $19 more than this year.
- For a commercial property with an assessment of $1.2 million, the owner will pay municipal taxes of $9,683, or $235 more than this year.
City councils in Vernon and Penticton have not yet finished with their 2014 budgets.
Okanagan homeowners may feel their net worth shrinking a bit next month when they open their BC Assessment notice. Preliminary information relayed from the agency to the City of Kelowna indicates the average single-family home has dropped in value by one per cent. The assessed value of an average commercial-class property in Kelowna has declined by two per cent. In Penticton, a typical home has dropped two per cent in value, and the decline is just over two per cent in Vernon. Commercial-class properties in both Penticton and Vernon had declined about half of one per cent. "In general, the assessed values are stable or down only slightly," Tracy Wall of BC Assessment said Friday.The advance information is relayed to municipalities to help them calculate the impact of municipal tax increases planned for the coming year. On Thursday, Kelowna city council approved a 2014 budget that calls for a municipal tax hike of 2.5 per cent. But this increase will be applied only to the owners of homes that have declined in assessed value by the typical average of one per cent. If a person's home has dropped in assessed value by more than one per cent, the owner could wind up paying less municipal tax in 2014 than he or she did this year. Conversely, if a home has increased in value, the owner will get a municipal increase of more than 2.5 per cent. After assessment notices are mailed out in early January, the City of Kelowna puts a property tax estimator on its website. By entering the 2013 and 2014 assessed values for their properties, owners can get an idea of how much municipal tax they will have to pay next summer. Here are the projected tax increases for three typical property types in Kelowna:
- For a single-family home that has dropped one per cent in value to $451,000, the owner will pay $1,731 in municipal taxes, or $42 more than this year.
- For a condominium that has declined in value by one per cent to $205,000, the owner will pay municipal taxes of $786, or $19 more than this year.
- For a commercial property with an assessment of $1.2 million, the owner will pay municipal taxes of $9,683, or $235 more than this year.
City councils in Vernon and Penticton have not yet finished with their 2014 budgets.
Friday, November 15, 2013
Vernon & Lumby Get Provincial Grants
Written by 107.5 Kiss FM Friday, 15 November 2013 13:01
The B.C. Government is providing $3,650 in grants-in-lieu of property taxes to Lumby, and $102,427 to Vernon. A release from the province says the city of Vernon will get $102,427, but it won't actually be that much. Kevin Bertles, Vernon's director of financial services, says the city has to pass along $26,779 to RDNO, leaving Vernon with $75,648. The funds are included in $18.2-million in grants to 63 communities across the province. "Vernon and Lumby will use these funds to continue providing important local services to residents," said Eric Foster, MLA for Vernon-Monashee. "Our municipal governments keep our cities and towns running smoothly and continue to make our communities a great place to live." Salmon Arm receives $14,627 and Sicamous $5,433. Grants-in-lieu are distributed annually and are payable on land owned by the provincial government, including courthouses, provincial government office buildings, and ambulance stations. Properties eligible for grants-in-lieu of property taxes are determined by the Municipal Aid Act. The government says this year's compensation represents an increase of $1.3 million over last year's payments, funds which help municipal governments and regional districts provide local services.
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http://www2.news.gov.bc.ca/news_releases_2013-2017/2013MTICS0010-001698.htm
The B.C. Government is providing $3,650 in grants-in-lieu of property taxes to Lumby, and $102,427 to Vernon. A release from the province says the city of Vernon will get $102,427, but it won't actually be that much. Kevin Bertles, Vernon's director of financial services, says the city has to pass along $26,779 to RDNO, leaving Vernon with $75,648. The funds are included in $18.2-million in grants to 63 communities across the province. "Vernon and Lumby will use these funds to continue providing important local services to residents," said Eric Foster, MLA for Vernon-Monashee. "Our municipal governments keep our cities and towns running smoothly and continue to make our communities a great place to live." Salmon Arm receives $14,627 and Sicamous $5,433. Grants-in-lieu are distributed annually and are payable on land owned by the provincial government, including courthouses, provincial government office buildings, and ambulance stations. Properties eligible for grants-in-lieu of property taxes are determined by the Municipal Aid Act. The government says this year's compensation represents an increase of $1.3 million over last year's payments, funds which help municipal governments and regional districts provide local services.
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http://www2.news.gov.bc.ca/news_releases_2013-2017/2013MTICS0010-001698.htm
Wednesday, October 02, 2013
BEYOND THE HEADLINES: Trying to find a balance
By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: October 02, 2013 1:00 AM
You can’t be everything to everyone. That appeared to be the message as administration made pre-2014 budget presentations to Vernon council last week. “We do not have all of the staff resources to undertake all of this,” said Kim Flick, community development manager, as she outlined the number of initiatives facing her staff of planners. Among the already outstanding strategic priorities are an airport master plan, an integrated community sustainability plan (as mandated by the province) and an Okanagan Landing neighbourhood centre plan. Bumping to the top of the list, though, are two new items — a parks master plan and a development cost charges review.
The parks master plan has become a must as Vernon will now be responsible for most of the greenspace within the community (it used to be managed by the regional district). There’s a need for Vernon to determine where it wants to head long-term with parks, and DCCs are important because they’re a way of private developers providing funds or land for new public spaces. It should be pointed out that the planning department has seven positions, but there are currently three vacancies. On top of this, the city’s policy of no new net employees means there won’t be a planner to handle the specific needs of parks, and existing staff will tackle that off the sides of their desks. “We are not landscape architects,” said Flick, adding that one option is to outsource that duty. Across town, the pubic works yard is also facing significant challenges given that all departments have been told to try and stay within a 1.8 per cent hike to the budget. With most of that increase going towards collective agreements with staff, there is little room to meet ballooning operational costs. “The infrastructure is getting older so that means more emergency repairs in the middle of the night and water main breaks,” said Shirley Koenig, operations manager. Skyrocketing B.C. Hydro rates have placed pressure on the city’s spray effluent program, while contracts for line painting have soared. The search for efficiencies are underway, but it was clear that some service level reductions may be necessary to keep within budget and ensure the evolving and unpredictable scope of public works continues. No specifics were given but a core review earlier this year identified yard waste chipping and clear bag pick-up as potential cuts. Now there will be some residents who have little sympathy for city staff and the challenges they face. After all, they are well paid and can be seen as wanting to protect their turf. But the responsibilities they face are significant. They must keep up with the needs and demands of a growing community, and while some of their decisions are debatable, it reinforces the fact that city staff are human just like the rest of us. Raising concerns shouldn’t be interpreted simply as whining. It’s administration’s job to tell the politicians that current resources may not be sufficient to absorb new mandates like parks. It’s up to them to state that a cap on public works spending may not be enough to do everything put before them. No one likes taxes going up (and remember that civic workers pay taxes too), but money also needs to be spent to ensure a municipality operates efficiently and effectively. In the end, a balance must be found.
You can’t be everything to everyone. That appeared to be the message as administration made pre-2014 budget presentations to Vernon council last week. “We do not have all of the staff resources to undertake all of this,” said Kim Flick, community development manager, as she outlined the number of initiatives facing her staff of planners. Among the already outstanding strategic priorities are an airport master plan, an integrated community sustainability plan (as mandated by the province) and an Okanagan Landing neighbourhood centre plan. Bumping to the top of the list, though, are two new items — a parks master plan and a development cost charges review.
The parks master plan has become a must as Vernon will now be responsible for most of the greenspace within the community (it used to be managed by the regional district). There’s a need for Vernon to determine where it wants to head long-term with parks, and DCCs are important because they’re a way of private developers providing funds or land for new public spaces. It should be pointed out that the planning department has seven positions, but there are currently three vacancies. On top of this, the city’s policy of no new net employees means there won’t be a planner to handle the specific needs of parks, and existing staff will tackle that off the sides of their desks. “We are not landscape architects,” said Flick, adding that one option is to outsource that duty. Across town, the pubic works yard is also facing significant challenges given that all departments have been told to try and stay within a 1.8 per cent hike to the budget. With most of that increase going towards collective agreements with staff, there is little room to meet ballooning operational costs. “The infrastructure is getting older so that means more emergency repairs in the middle of the night and water main breaks,” said Shirley Koenig, operations manager. Skyrocketing B.C. Hydro rates have placed pressure on the city’s spray effluent program, while contracts for line painting have soared. The search for efficiencies are underway, but it was clear that some service level reductions may be necessary to keep within budget and ensure the evolving and unpredictable scope of public works continues. No specifics were given but a core review earlier this year identified yard waste chipping and clear bag pick-up as potential cuts. Now there will be some residents who have little sympathy for city staff and the challenges they face. After all, they are well paid and can be seen as wanting to protect their turf. But the responsibilities they face are significant. They must keep up with the needs and demands of a growing community, and while some of their decisions are debatable, it reinforces the fact that city staff are human just like the rest of us. Raising concerns shouldn’t be interpreted simply as whining. It’s administration’s job to tell the politicians that current resources may not be sufficient to absorb new mandates like parks. It’s up to them to state that a cap on public works spending may not be enough to do everything put before them. No one likes taxes going up (and remember that civic workers pay taxes too), but money also needs to be spent to ensure a municipality operates efficiently and effectively. In the end, a balance must be found.
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