Re: “Richmond property taxes to go up 3.3 per cent,” News, Dec. 13, 2017.
In January, the single-family homeowners breathed a sigh of relief when the assessed value of their homes stopped going up. Finally, some property tax relief might be in sight.
However, city council, in the 5-Year Financial Plan 2018-2022, has dashed our hopes. Council has approved a 3.3 per cent increase and also used a reserve fund to achieve that number. Prior, it was 3.5 per cent.
When one reviews the past financial plans, the forecasted tax increase for 2018 was between 2.96 and 2.99 per cent. So, this year, council rasied taxes 11 per cent above what was planned.
Council needs to be held accountable for its unbridled spending habits, including $80 million-on the Richmond Olympic Oval over five years.
Your opportunity to comment on LetsTalkRichmond.ca expires on Sunday, March 4, 2018 at 11:59 p.m. However, final reading (approval) will be at a council meeting on March 12 where you are entitled to voice your opinion and/or make a written submission in advance.
Donald Flintoff
RICHMOND
