File photo by Liam Verster / Vernon Matters

By Liam Verster

Budget 2026 Talks

Vernon council to deliberate budget Monday

Nov 28, 2025 | 1:30 PM

The City of Vernon will set its budget for the coming year at a special meeting Monday.

Vernon City Council will hold its budget deliberations, where they will discuss the city’s spending and taxation plan, in the council chambers at 9 a.m. Dec. 1.

As of the latest report, the plan called for a tax increase of 10.24 per cent. That includes the 3.5 per cent tax for the Active Living Centre repayment, 2.88 per cent to maintain service levels, 2.15 per cent to offset investment declines, 1.35 per cent for RCMP Contract and Support costs, and 0.36 per cent in council pre-approved increases for a Transportation Planer and enhanced cyber security.

That would translate to an estimated average residential tax increase of $18.61 per month, or $223.32 annual increase.

The city held numerous surveys, open houses and online engagement opportunities regarding the financial plans, and in a release said “residents showed strong support for maintaining current service levels, improving public safety, and continuing to invest in core infrastructure like roads, sidewalks and sewer systems. People also expressed support for parks, trails and green space and felt that housing and affordability should remain a key focus.”

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The city stated that the focus for the 2026 budget has been put on enhancing public safety and reducing crime; easing traffic congestion and expanding active transportation corridors; increasing housing options and improving affordability; expanding and upgrading recreational facilities and sports fields; and strengthening climate resilience through flood and wildfire risk mitigation work.

It was noted that only about 50 per cent of the city’s budget is funded through property taxes, and that the remainder comes through sources such as user fees, utility charges, developer contributions, grants and reserves.

The final budget, which will be compiled following the special meeting Monday, will be used to inform property taxes that will be released in May.