Pitt Meadows city council has endorsed a 2025 budget of $59.7 million, which includes tax and utilities increase of more than nine per cent for residential property owners.
The owner of an average house in the city will pay an additional $411 per year for taxes and utilities, for the average single family home assessed at $1.2 million,
Of that increase, $214 is for property taxes, and $197 for utility fee increases. The average home will pay $4,911 in taxes and utilities for 2025, up from $4,500 in 2024, for a combined increase of 9.13 per cent compared to last year.
“We worked diligently to endorse a responsible budget that ensures residents are getting the best value for their money,” said Mayor Nicole MacDonald. “Despite several external costs beyond our control that increase taxes, we have approved a budget that maintains service levels in the midst of rising costs, while investing in the services and infrastructure our residents depend on, and enjoy.”
"I think the return on investment, and to maintain this fabulous, special, safe, healthy, livable, community, for $34.24 a month, covering all of that, is a very realistic, and I think prudent and impressive budget," she said at the council table.
MacDonald noted the city will continue to have one of the lowest tax rates of all municipalities in the region this year.
"It is a rather austere time though, for so many people in the community. It's tough, that every year it seems the numbers keep going up," said Coun. Bob Meachen
He said he was grateful council did not bring forward "grandiose schemes," and noted utility fees are major cost drivers.
Councillors spoke in support of the budget, which maintains the status quo without cutting services, and saying costs outside of the city's control drove increases.
The city’s annual base property tax increase of $214 includes the addition of a full-year budget for four flex firefighters, operational costs of Grabenhorst Park, rising costs of emergency dispatch services, and extended library hours.
The utility fee increase of $197 includes a $118 charge from Metro Vancouver which includes utility services provided to the city as well as a significant charge towards the replacement of the North Shore Waste Water Treatment Plant.
“The 2025 budget prioritizes public safety, sustainability, community essentials, and working towards future infrastructure needs,” said chief financial officer Laura Barroetavena.
She said multiple budget reviews were done, and $900,000 in reductions were found from the first draft.
The 2025 capital expenditures are $37.5 million, with most coming from reserves. Some of the significant projects are:
• Pitt Meadows Athletic Park double artificial turf
• PMAP covered multi-sports box
• Completion of the RCMP detachment
• Water Main replacements at Bonson Road, 195B, 115A, 116B, 119B
• Kennedy Pump Station replacement
• Rail monitoring and alert system at Harris Road rail crossing
