The Town of Oliver recently underwent a strategic planning session to determine what path it will take in the future.
File photo
Oliver residents won’t have to dig too much deeper to fund a 1.5 per cent increase in general tax revenues this year.
Town council set the increase following budget discussions on February 10.
Chief Financial Officer Dave Svetlichny said they are working on tax calculations and how council’s decision will affect the average homeowner.
Mayor Ron Hovanes said he believes the 1.5 per cent increase is modest, especially when compared to neighbouring communities.
“We do not have the large commercial tax base that other communities benefit from.”
With the small increase, and starting with a small surplus, council is able to ensure that existing services continue while still addressing the needs of core services, the mayor said. He pointed to road improvements, added park space, and replacing public works equipment.
The following additions were made to the general budget: land marketing strategy – $10,000; council chamber microphone system – $8,000; Official Community Plan update – $45,000; Town hall front counter renovation – $5,000; employee wellness committee start-up – $1,000; extra bylaw hours – $4,400; fleet maintenance (GPS) – $14,400; emergency services program training – $2,500; promotional budget – $1,500; volunteer recognition/Spirit of Oliver – $5,000; increase Bandai/Chelan sister city budget – $1,000; increase highway resurfacing budget – $30,000; and electronic records management module – $10,000.
Corporate Officer Cathy Cowan said an additional three hours per day of bylaw enforcement will occur during the spring/summer months for a total of 12 weeks. This will cost an additional $4,400.
She also advised council that an electronic document management system was needed to provide proper retention of electronic records. That’s why council budgeted $10,000 for this.
Director of Operations Shawn Goodsell outlined various uses associated with installing GPS units (vehicle diagnostics, speed, planning routes, safety and accident analysis).
The Town is applying for two-thirds grant funding for an airport runway upgrade project (repave taxiway, etc.) This will cost over $500,000, but after the grant, the 176,000 balance will be covered by prepaid leases, so there will be no tax implications.
Lyonel Doherty
Oliver Chronicle
