The City of Victoria is seeking public feedback from residents on the proposed 2026 Draft Budget.
In November, City staff presented the budget to Council, which would have resulted in a 13.31% tax increase in 2026.
The City’s portion of this was projected at 8.29%, while VicPD’s portion of this increase is 5.02%.
Thus far, VicPD has been unwilling to reduce their request for a 14% increase.
Over the last month, council has been deliberating which programs and services to cut from the budget in order to bring their portion of the tax increase down below 4%.
The end result of early cuts to the budget resulted in the City’s portion representing a 5.42% increase. When combined with VicPD’s requested increase, this brings the total property tax hike to 10.44%.
The next step in the budget process will allow public feedback by writing, or by a pre-recorded video.
Related:
- VicPD stands by 14% budget increase that could sharply increase property taxes
- Victoria saves more services from cuts in 2026 financial plan
Feedback must be received by the City by January 23rd, in order to help inform council’s budget decisions.
This public feedback will be shared with council early next year.
City council must have their 2026-30 Draft Financial Plan finalized by May 15th at the latest.
Learn more about the budget and submit your thoughts online here.
