First look: Proposed projects total $42.6M

Whistlerites can expect another modest tax increase in the 2019 budget.

The Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW) is proposing a 2.9-per-cent tax increase, two-per-cent increases to sewer parcel and water fees, and a 3.6-per-cent increase to solid waste user fees.

"Throughout the year, council receives input from the community and makes decisions on long-range plans," said Mayor Jack Crompton, during the budget open house at the Maury Young Arts Centre on Feb. 4.

"This year we will have the benefit that everything is discussed from the municipal election in October, and so council has had the unique chance to listen to you provide input through the election process, which is extremely helpful."

Some of the priorities council decided on during its December retreat that are reflected in this year's budget include wildfire protection, environmental performance, housing and transportation, Crompton said.

"We're also putting a lot of time into looking at asset management, and stepwise reinvestment into our community's infrastructure to remain sustainable into the future," he said.

"We're paying special attention to reserves. Our reserves are critical for the long-term success of our town, and as we have been making and will continue to make significant infrastructure investments, we need to take care that those reserves are strong."

The 2019-2023 proposed projects list includes 176 projects worth $42.6 million (including $5.3 million carried over from 2018).

Find the full list, along with other budget materials, at www.whistler.ca/budget.

The Five-Year Financial Plan Bylaw is tentatively scheduled for first three readings on March 26 and adoption on April 9, while the Tax Rate Bylaws are tentatively scheduled for first three readings on April 9.

In 2018, property taxes went up 2.25 per cent, solid waste user fees went up 4.5-per-cent and sewer parcel taxes 1.1-per-cent, while there was no increase to water rates.

Pick up Thursday's Pique for more.