Highlights of April 28 Council meeting

Final budget approved

Council approved the City’s final 2025 budget with a net municipal property tax increase of 4.34%, consistent with the Preliminary Budget approved in December 2024. For the average residential property tax bill in Kelowna, the increase will add an extra $8.98 per month—or $107.79 per year—to fund municipal services and projects. The 4.34 per cent tax demand increase is one of the lowest in the province. Property taxes fund less than a quarter of the City’s $908 million budget, with the rest coming from user fees, utility service charges, developer contributions, grants, and reserves. Read Report to Council  

Social development

Council heard an update on the work of the City’s Social Development department. Key achievements in 2024 and early 2025 include supporting more than 120 people into permanent housing, expanding youth gang prevention initiatives, and launching new digital tools to better coordinate services for vulnerable populations. Read Report to Council  

Water allotments

Council agreed to a staff proposal allowing an additional 86 hectares of agricultural land to access water allotments without risking supply obligations or environmental needs. The proposal includes an increased allotment limit and fee structure for Agricultural properties looking to acquire or increase their allotment from the non-potable water supply, ensuring allotments are carefully managed, prioritizing sustainable farming practices and water resource protection. Read Report to Council   

To watch a playback of the Council meeting and view all presentations, visit “Past Meetings” at  kelowna.ca/council .