The Summerland Society for Civic Engagement will hold a town hall meeting to discuss the 2025 budget and the alternative approval process for determining approval for community projects.
The society operates separately from Summerland鈥檚 municipal government. Its stated focus is to focus is to promote discussion and information on policies within the community.
The town hall meeting will be held Monday, Feb. 10 at 6:30 p.m. at Twisted Whiskers Cafe, 9910 Main St.
The evening will have an open mic session and an informal opportunity to brainstorm and share ideas for budget savings.
The Summerland Society for Civic Engagement has also invited the municipality's council to attend. Coun. Erin Trainer has said she will be attending.
鈥淲e are promoting an atmosphere of mutual respect and focused discussion,鈥� said John Coburn, one of the society's directors.
鈥淭his meeting will be a chance for Summerland residents to further consider the decisions that affect our community鈥檚 future.鈥�
The Summerland municipal budget calls for a 7.25 per cent property tax increase. There are also two community projects that will require borrowing. Determining public approval for these projects is being done through the alternative approval process.
The projects are for upgrades to Victoria Road South and upgrades along Wharton Street.
The Victoria Road South upgrades call for borrowing up to $2,693,470, to be repaid over 25 years, while the Wharton Street upgrade work calls for borrowing up to $3,365,080 over a 25-year term.
The Victoria Road South project would have an estimated cost to users of around $25.20 a year, while the Wharton Street upgrade word would cost the average household around $40.26 a year, according to statements on the Summerland website.
Those who are in favour of the proposed borrowing do not need to take action. Those opposed must submit a signed elector response form.
If at least 10 per cent of the electors, or 1,002 people, submit the forms, council must go to a referendum before proceeding with the bylaw.
Summerland鈥檚 budget must be approved by May 15. The deadline for the elector response forms under the alternative approval process is Feb. 25.
The meeting will also include an informal presentation by Carson Binda, the B.C. delegate from the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, joining via Zoom to discuss the implications of rising taxes on residents and businesses.
