Homeowners in Surrey will be facing a property tax hike this year, although it will be the lowest experienced in the region, according to the city’s mayor.
Mayor Brenda Locke announced Monday the city is proposing a 2.8 per cent property tax increase, without cutting services.
“It was hard work, there’s no doubt about that,” she said.
The increase equates to around a $77 cost increase for an average single-family home. Residents will also be on the hook for a one per cent roads and traffic levy.
During the announcement on Monday Locke said there are plans to hire an additional 20 firefighters, 10 bylaw staff and 25 police officers within the City of Surrey’s 2025-2029 General Operating and Capital Budgets.
Over a five-year period, the proposed Capital Program allocates $701 million.
“This plan will support 36 major projects, including ten new initiatives that will significantly enhance our community’s growth and prominence, as well as position Surrey as a leading metropolitan center,” she said.
Among the projects set to get underway is a10,000-seat Sports and Entertainment Arena, and an Interactive Art Museum.
Surrey city councillor Linda Annis said she had some reservations with the plan.
“When I look at the capital projects that are on the list, some of them aren’t even funded,” she said, referring to the City Centre arena.
“So, I’m not sure how those are going to be funded, whether it will require additional property taxes or borrowing.”
Residents are encouraged to give feedback before the report goes to the finance committee on April 14.
