Council Reduces District Property Tax Increase By 2.35%

Sooke’s budget under development with first draft to be presented on April 11th public meeting

Thursday, March 23, 2023 - District Council is looking to reduce a property tax increase on district services from $131 to less than $100 (based on the average assessed residential property) for 2023.

“Everyone is facing cost pressures and Council is looking to reduce the financial impact on residents while still responding to the needs of a growing community,” said Mayor Maja Tait. “Where we’re hearing numerous municipalities are sitting at an increase that would cost households two-to-three times, even more, keeping a district property increase in line with inflation and below $100 is a priority.”

On Tuesday, District Council completed its service level review. Next, staff will present a draft budget at the April 11, 2023 Council meeting.

Currently, the 2023 budget sees the District investing in community safety, roads, parks, and environmental services.

More specifically, key budget items include:

Increased fire and police service delivery - working towards 24/7 coverage in both areas and reducing call response times
Increased road maintenance and paving service delivery
Church Road Roundabout
New park amenities including:
1. Little River Crossing
2. Additional recreation facilities at Ravens Ridge Park
Streetlight and transit stop improvements

Informed by community input, master plans and technical expertise: Understanding more about the budget process

The district’s budget is informed through public participation (citizen budget survey and community pop-ups from mid-June to mid-July each year), master plans and technical guidance from staff.

With these three inputs, staff prepare a preliminary budget. Next, Council directs staff on service levels such as investing more in road maintenance or working to decrease emergency call response times by enhancing police and fire services.

After the service level review is complete, a draft budget is presented to Council for readings at a public meeting. Then, a community open house is held to inform residents about the budget and projects taking place for the remainder of the year.

Following the open house, the budget is adopted.

Council must adopt its budget by May 15^th each year.

Learn more: