Special Council

Summary

• 2023 Draft Capital and Operating Budget presentation: Staff presented the full current-state budget for 2023, covering the capital plan and operating costs. Key themes included rising inflation, supply chain pressures, and increased public safety costs driving pressure on property taxes. The 3.5 billion dollar 2023–2026 Capital Plan focuses on renewing aging infrastructure, accommodating growth, and addressing emerging needs. Final debate and decisions are scheduled for December 6, 2022.
• 2023 Water Rates: Staff proposed a 3.0% increase to single-family flat and metered water rates, a 10.0% increase to flat rate connection fees for single and two-family dwellings, and a 3.3% increase to other connection fees, to support full cost recovery and infrastructure investment.
• 2023 Sewer Rates: Staff proposed a 15.0% increase to sewer utility customer rates and a 10.0% increase to connection fees, driven largely by Metro Vancouver's levy increases tied to the Iona Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrades (estimated at 9.9 billion dollars) and the City's own aging sewer system renewal needs.
• 2023 Solid Waste Utility Fees: Staff proposed a combined 5.9% fee increase for a representative single-family residence (garbage cart up 6.0%, green bin cart up 6.5%), due to higher fleet maintenance and replacement costs and increased landfill and transfer station costs.
• Public speakers: Eight members of the public addressed Council on the budget; one speaker in support, one opposed, and six speaking to other aspects of the recommendations.