Sooke residents are bracing for a possible 16.04 per cent property tax hike in 2025, the steepest increase in years. But with concerns mounting, council has asked staff to explore options for reducing the hike to 10 per cent.
“We need to be cognizant that it’s tough times out there. There is an economic reality that could hit us,” said Coun. Kevin Pearson, emphasizing the importance of exploring other options.
Staff presented the draft plan at a recent committee of the whole meeting. It proposes a 14.04 per cent increase in the operating budget and an additional two per cent for asset management, resulting in a $2.13-million rise in general municipal taxes.
For the average single-family home, valued at $770,284, this means an annual increase of $247.87, or $20.66 per month. The hike would fund policing, asset management and other municipal operations.
“It’s another challenging budget year. We’re facing inflationary pressures, internal growth demands and a loss of revenue, such as the utility tax,” said Raechel Gray, Sooke’s chief administrative officer.
The proposed tax increase is primarily driven by policing and emergency dispatch costs of $951,681 (7.72%) and a two per cent allocation for road and infrastructure maintenance. Additional factors include $512,286 (4.16%) for non-discretionary expenses such as staffing, insurance, and a municipal byelection, as well as $266,947 (2.17%) for discretionary spending on additional firefighters, park labourers, and operational costs.
A corporate report to council highlighted that past tax freezes, while attractive, have made it harder to address rising costs. Despite the proposed increase, Sooke’s property taxes remain among the lowest on Vancouver Island. To match the median rate on the Island, households would need to pay an additional $766 — far above the proposed $247.87 increase.
“We’re very aware that 80 per cent of our tax base is residential and not commercial. That’s why community economic development is so important to us,” Gray said.
Road improvements remain a priority, with $200,000 allocated for highway maintenance. Other capital projects include major park upgrades, bridge safety work and planning for future road connectors.
Public feedback has helped shape the plan. The district received 329 surveys, a 64.5 per cent increase from last year. About 900 residents attended pop-up events, where they allocated symbolic tax dollars to various services. Many residents supported increased spending on roads, business growth, community planning and parks.
Council will hold further discussions on the 2025 budget in February, followed by a public open house in March. Staff aim to adopt the budget by mid-May, ahead of finalizing property tax rates.
Under the Community Charter, municipalities must approve a financial plan annually by May 15. Sooke officials say they will adjust budget forecasts based on public input and new developments while ensuring transparency and accountability.
