This month, the 2025 Penticton Budget passed through council relatively unnoticed from most of our community. I've been asked by many who are aware of the tax increase just why I voted against it.
I would like to recognize the significant effort and dedication of our staff, who spent many months developing this document. Their hard work and commitment to the process is greatly appreciated. Ultimately, the budget was approved by council with a 7.88% tax increase with a 4-1 vote, with myself as the sole dissenting voice. It is important to me that you understand the reasons behind my decision to vote against this budget.
A 7.88% tax increase is substantial, especially in these challenging times. It is important to remember that the budget presented by staff was only a proposal. As elected officials, it is our responsibility to then take this proposal, critically assess it and make decisions that are reflective of our communities needs and wants. Council's job is to review, debate, and amend what is brought forward by staff and make decisions that we feel are best for our citizens. Unfortunately, I believe this process of rigorous evaluation and constructive debate was notably absent from this council's approach during the budget meetings.
In my view, in these difficult economic times, any new hires or increased spending should align with our strategic priorities, particularly in areas like safety and security. For instance, continued investment in the RCMP, fire department, bylaw enforcement, and the ongoing surveillance camera program are essential to advancing council’s priorities and respond
to the needs of our community. At the same time, it is crucial that council remain sensitive to the financial pressures many residents and businesses are under in our city. Given these challenges, I believe the addition of seven new staff positions is excessive and disproportionate to the current economic climate.
Unfortunately, during the budget session, no other council member moved to delay the hiring of any of these new staff members, or made any proposed adjustments that might have reduced (or increased) the tax burden. During the budget discussions, I was the only one to raise concerns or suggest alternatives. My proposals were either ignored or rejected, and no alternative solutions were presented by other councillors.
I encourage you to visit the City of Penticton website and watch the video of the 2025 budget deliberations for yourself. For the future well-being of our city and its residents, I hope we will see some thorough, thoughtful and meaningful public debate from all members of council next year when it comes time to discuss the 2026 budget in order to reflect the best interests of our entire community.
