A recent survey conducted by the City of Cranbrook has found 67 per cent of residents would be opposed to an 8.59 per cent tax increase.
The city conducted two surveys from Sept. 18 to Oct. 18 to consider options to reduce taxes.
One was a statistically valid survey which was sent to 1,600 residents, while the other one was a open public opinion survey.
City staff say 409 of the statistically valid surveys were completed for a response of 25.6 per cent, but the results were very similar to the 1,122 responses on the public survey.
“This is the most in depth and detailed public consultation that the City has ever undertaken on the budget. On behalf of Council, I appreciate the time and effort our residents have taken to complete this survey and share their comments with us,” said Mayor Wayne Price.
“This information will help inform Council, as we have the next few months to work on the budget. We will have to make some very difficult decisions.”
The city is anticipating an 8.59 per cent tax increase to maintain the same level of service in the community.
Council wants to get that number down to a five per cent increase, but that will mean sacrifices need to be made.
City staff are currently reviewing all department expenses and services to reduce all costs without affecting services, however, some service reductions or fee increases are likely for the city to reach the five per cent goal.
In the survey 55 per cent of residents would be okay with a five per cent increase, while 15 per cent don’t think it will be enough and 30 per cent think it’s still too much.
Budget talks for 2025 are just starting in Cranbrook with two more public meetings scheduled for before the new year.
They will take place on Dec. 11 from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. and on Dec. 13 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
The full survey results can be found here.
Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyEastKootenayNow News Alerts.
