Proposed tax hike in Coldstream

by Jennifer Smith - Vernon Morning Star posted Feb 17, 2016 at 1:00 AM
Coldstream is investing in the future with a proposed 3.5 per cent tax increase for 2016. Preliminary budget discussions Monday revealed Coldstream is planning on putting some funds into reserves by raising taxes and is also interested in supporting health care. “The increase will go toward the road reserve (pavement management plan) bringing it to an annual level of $1 million a year, the building reserve to ensure that the district’s buildings are adequately maintained, the drainage reserve in order to address more drainage issues throughout Coldstream and operations increases and possible enhancements,” said Mayor Jim Garlick. Proposed capital projects for 2016 include phasing of the Coldstream Creek Road bike path and parks irrigation software. The finance committee (council) also recommended that the district’s share of the surplus from the disbandment of the North Okanagan Hospital District, amounting to $55,000, be given to the Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation, which supports health care in the North Okanagan. “Health care was the original intent that this money was taxed for. This contribution is therefore seen as appropriate,” said Garlick. “We are sure the foundation will make good use of these funds.” Part of the budget could also include $20,000 to determine the feasibility of constructing a dike across the mouth of Kalavista lagoon and dredging the lagoon.