Vernon politicians lower tax increase

By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: March 12, 2012 4:00 PM

Vernon residents received an unexpected surprise Monday.  Council unanimously voted to decrease the 2012 tax increase from two to 1.7 per cent after receiving an update on revenue the city receives from the province such as traffic fines.  "Our economy is still facing challenges and we're looking at what we can do for our citizens," said Coun. Catherine Lord.  There is about $310,000 available in provincial funding, with $80,000 to $90,000 going towards lowering taxes and the rest being put aside for a new RCMP detachment in the future.  Coun. Bob Spiers says the city had to reduce taxes because of other financial pressures impacting residents like water rates. "We've got a heck of a lot of people who will feel a pinch," he said. While lowering the tax hike was unanimous, some elected officials expressed   some reluctance because there are other demands on the city, such as improved pedestrian safety at Okanagan Landing and Myriad roads. "I want to make sure we're providing a level of service and if there are safety concerns, we need to address them," said Coun. Mary-Jo O'Keefe.