Action Plan
Fiscal Responsibility & Transparency
Taxpayers have been told that the ongoing densification of Kelowna would pay its way.
Kelowna is reported to be one of the fastest growing cities in Canada. Despite an increase in property tax collection there is a serious infrastructure deficit.
Since 2014, property taxes have increased a total of 29%, the total number of city employees has grown to more than 1,030 from 716 employees and we have seen the average home price soar to nearly $1 million from $428,000. The facts speak for themselves! We need to hold our partners and elected officials accountable.
Examine City Spending:
I believe it’s time that the City Council conducted an independent review of our municipal budget and programs to see if there are any savings to be found for taxpayers, through modernization or better use of funding to achieve the same results, without cutting services.
In addition, City Council is planning on borrowing $165M to build a new Parkinson Recreation Centre. I applaud the vision! Hhowever, I have some serious concerns about the timing and the approach. I believe Council needs to work closer with School District #23. A new school with a gym and recreational facilities should be built in coordination and cooperation with the City, School District #23 and the BC Government.