Five hot topics are top of mind for Victoria council as talks continue Thursday (Feb. 13) on the currently projected 12 per cent tax increase for 2025.
Any potential police budget increase; increase in property taxes; community well-being services; housing initiatives; and beautification projects topped the latest round of public input.
The information comes from 187 written responses gathered during an eight-week period at the end of 2024. It was the final piece in a three-prong public engagement approach, which started with an Ipsos poll calling 700 random residents, followed by focused budget conversations with eight local, equity-seeking groups.
A significant number of respondents – 90 per cent of the 61 mentions – supported funding community well-being services such as health and mental health, harm reduction and support for people who use drugs.
Of the 49 mentions, 96 per cent supported funding housing initiatives. Funding for community initiatives such as community gardens, arts and venue spaces saw 87 per cent support of the 46 times it was mentioned.
Mentioned 81 times, 83 per cent opposed funding a police budget increase and many opposed an increase in property taxes (92 per cent of the 76 mentions) as well as beautification projects (98 per cent of the 46 mentions). Of 46 mentions, 35 people specifically referred to the Centennial Square Revitalization Project, with 97 per cent opposed. Of the 187 written submissions, 130 identified as Victoria residents, 17 came on behalf of a local group or non-profit organization, nine from business owners and 31 did not specify.
The 2025 draft budget proposes to invest $365.6 million in operating costs and $94.6 million in capital improvements.
Council perused the responses and corresponding report during its Feb. 6 meeting and continues the budget conversation during its Feb. 13 committee meeting. Find the agenda and ways to participate online at https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/mayor-council/council-committee-meetings.
The final draft budget is expected by late April; May 15 is the deadline for B.C. municipalities to adopt budgets.
