Budget Update: Financial Plan Considered for Three Readings on March 23

The District of Sooke’s 2026–2030 Financial Plan is advancing to the next stage, with Council set to consider the bylaw for three readings at the March 23 Regular Council Meeting.

This milestone follows several months of budget deliberations, including detailed discussions at the March 16 Committee of the Whole, where Council worked to refine the draft plan and balance community priorities with affordability.

In local government, bylaws must pass three readings before they can be adopted. First reading introduces the bylaw, second reading allows for debate and amendments, and third reading reflects Council’s approval of the bylaw in near-final form. While significant, this step does not finalize the budget.

Pending readings, the District will host a Community Budget Open House on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, from 2:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Sooke Municipal Hall (2205 Otter Point Road). The open house provides an opportunity for residents to learn more about the proposed financial plan and share feedback.

Council will continue to have opportunities to review and amend the Financial Plan following the open house. Final adoption is currently planned for the April 13, 2026 Regular Council Meeting.

By legislation, municipalities are required to adopt their financial plans by May 15 each year.

Balancing Priorities and Affordability

The current draft financial plan reflects Council’s direction to limit the 2026 property tax increase to 12%. Achieving this cap required a series of adjustments, including deferring the start of new RCMP positions, managing vacancies, reducing contingency budgets, and scaling back discretionary spending.

Policing costs remain a significant factor in the budget. Even with the deferral of two officers and a School Liaison position to September 2026, RCMP costs account for approximately one-third of the overall tax increase. As Sooke continues to grow, future policing needs will remain a key consideration in financial planning.

At the same time, the budget seeks to maintain core municipal services and align investments with Council’s Strategic Plan, particularly in areas such as public safety, parks, and community infrastructure.

What Comes Next

The weeks ahead provide important opportunities for community input and Council decision-making before the financial plan is finalized. Residents are encouraged to attend the open house, follow Council discussions, and stay informed as the District works toward adopting a balanced and sustainable budget for 2026.