Adjusted 2017 Operations budget shows lower proposed taxes

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The revised 2016 Operating Budget has been unveiled, and adjustments have resulted into slightly lower taxes for residents.

The proposed tax revenue increase has gone from 3.8 per cent, to 1.87 per cent. The City is still pending a final tax rate based on 2016 assessment numbers, but based on 2015 assessment numbers, required revenue would increase tax rates by 1.98 per cent.

This will provide revenue for the City, as well as the 2.5 per cent Fort St. John will see as part of the Peace River Agreement.

The new budget shows expected revenue for the City standing at $94,346,486, with expenditures at $75,906,741. This is a move from the previous expectations of $95,924,498 for revenue, and $76,822,411 for expenditures.

Another notable decrease is in the cost of city services for residents. Previously, the amount was listed at $7.07 for these services, but now they have been reduced to $6.96.

A public meeting will be held to discuss this budget, but has not been scheduled yet.