Council approves final 2026 Budget with 4.40 per cent tax increase

Kelowna City Council has approved the City’s final 2026 Budget, confirming a 4.40 per cent tax increase—one of the lowest in the province. For the average homeowner, this works out to about $9.60 per month, or $115 per year, to support public safety, essential services, and major infrastructure investments.

“This budget delivers on the priorities that make a real difference in people’s lives — safer streets, reliable services, and infrastructure that keeps pace with growth,” said Mayor Tom Dyas. “Our service-based budgeting approach shows residents exactly where their money is going and the results it is achieving. It strengthens accountability and ensures we can deliver on these priorities while keeping taxes low and predictable.” 

Kelowna’s tax stability continues to stand out. When looking at cumulative taxes over the past five years, Kelowna remains among the most stable municipalities in the province. See how tax rates compare in the Tax Comparison Charts.

The $1.1‑billion budget funds 20 service areas, including police and fire services, transportation, parks and recreation, transit, utilities, and digital services. Kelowna’s service‑based budgeting model connects each tax dollar to clear outcomes and measurable results.

What’s funded in 2026?
Council’s decisions are guided by six community‑driven priorities—crime and safety, transportation, homelessness, affordable housing, agriculture and environment, and the economy—with key investments in:

• Public Safety is Front and Centre: Funding for 11 new front‑line positions—five RCMP officers, four firefighters, and two bylaw officers—supported in part by a one per cent public safety levy.
• Transportation and Infrastructure: Nearly half of the budget dedicated to roads, parks, facilities, and other major capital projects, allowing the City to bundle projects and fast‑track delivery. These projects are part of the City’s $2.8‑billion 10‑Year Capital Plan and are listed at kelowna.ca/cityprojects.
• Recreation Facilities: Continued progress on the Building a Stronger Kelowna initiative, including the redevelopment of the Parkinson Recreation Centre, new community centres in Glenmore, Mission, and Rutland, and improved sports fields. Learn more at kelwona.ca/BSK.
• Core Services: Funding to cover rising costs for road repairs, transit, water and wastewater utilities, and upkeep of parks and public spaces, ensuring Kelowna remains clean, safe, and in good repair.
• Digital Services and Cybersecurity: Investments to improve online services and strengthen system security, making City services easier and safer to access.

Property taxes fund less than one‑quarter of the City’s budget. The remainder comes from user fees, utility charges, developer contributions, grants, and reserves, reflecting the City’s continued focus on reducing reliance on property taxes.

The City is also working with government and community partners to expand affordable housing, including below‑market rentals, and to deliver complex care and transitional housing for people experiencing homelessness.

Last year, Kelowna received the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for its 2025 Financial Plan, marking 24 consecutive years of recognition for budgeting excellence. The 2026 Budget continues to strengthen performance reporting to better show the value delivered for each tax dollar.

Learn more at kelowna.ca/budget.

Get your property tax bill sooner with eBilling
Property tax notices will be mailed starting May 23. For faster access, switch to eBilling and get your City of Kelowna bills delivered to your inbox up to a week earlier. Sign up at kelowna.ca/billing.

Property owners have until July 2 to claim the provincial Home Owner Grant and pay their property taxes to avoid a 10 per cent penalty. The Home Owner Grant is separate from the B.C. Speculation and Vacancy Tax and must be claimed before the tax deadline to reduce your tax bill.