At the Committee of the Whole meeting on Tuesday, November 28, 2023, City Council and Kamloops residents got their first look at the 2024 provisional budget and 2024–2028 Five-Year Financial Plan. The provisional budget is a document prepared by City staff that outlines the projected costs of operating City programs and services at the same levels as last year (or at new levels already approved by Council) and the related impact those costs will have on residential taxpayers. Kamloops, like most other BC cities, is facing significant cost increases related to inflation, supply chain issues, changing climate conditions, and recruitment, resulting in a provisional budget with a property tax funding requirement increase of 10.81%.

The City will be hosting an in-person budget information session this Thursday, November 30, 7:00–9:00 pm, in the Kamloops Kia Lounge at the Sandman Centre.

At the meeting, the City will explain how the budget and 2024–2028 Five-Year Financial Plan were created along with the factors that influence them. Residents are encouraged to come to the meeting; ask questions; and learn about the City’s financial planning process, how projects are funded, and how the budget is put together. The public will have the opportunity to provide feedback on the provisional budget and share new ideas to be considered in the supplemental budget in future budget years. Representatives from various City departments will be in attendance to answer questions the public may have about City operations. A presentation recording and survey will also be available online for those unable to attend the meeting.

Feedback from residents helps the City understand public priorities and informs City planning to create a stronger future for Kamloops. In February, Council will consider new proposals for increased funding or changes to service levels. These requests come from staff, Council and the community in the form of supplemental budget items. Before Council makes a decision on those items, Kamloops residents will have another opportunity to weigh in, either in-person or online.