The Town of Oliver has taken special (budget) action to support citizens and businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a closed meeting yesterday, council directed staff to make changes to the 2020 property tax budget and utility rates to support taxpayers facing financial hardship.
The changes include:Deferring the four per cent water utility increase approved for 2020; and reducing the nine per cent property tax increase approved for 2020 to zero.
Council has also approved using funds from the reserve accounts to allow for a 50 per cent reduction for the first quarter utility bill for 2020.
Oliver Mayor Martin Johansen said the new relief measures are in support of those hardest hit in the community, recognizing that many people will be struggling to pay bills right now.
“Council feels the measures strike a good balance between the Town of Oliver’s responsibility to not run a deficit and meet our obligations to maintain essential services.”
Johansen said council also considers these measures an investment.
“We encourage residents to re-direct these savings back into the community where they are able to. Shopping local is a great way to support independent businesses who are the backbone of our community’s economic sustainability.”
Council also directed staff to enter into an Essential Services Mutual Aid Agreement with adjacent municipalities and the RDOS during the COVID-19 pandemic. This agreement will serve to ensure continuity of essential services related to water, wastewater and solid waste infrastructure. Any party who determines their own resources are insufficient, can request mutual aid from the others to bring the situation under control.
The mayor said residents need to be diligent in maintaining their social distance, staying a minimum of two metres (six feet) apart outside of their homes. And don’t forget frequent hand-washing and staying home if you are sick.
“This will be challenging in consideration of the upcoming Easter long weekend, Johansen said. “However, please listen to Dr. Bonnie Henry’s message urging people to ‘keep the firewall strong’ and be steadfast in our commitment to holding the line right now in B.C.”
