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Do You Know What Your Tax Dollars Delivered Last Year? By BoostBC
- Alyssa
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
When people think about taxes, they often wonder where that money actually goes. The good news? The City of Kelowna’s newly released 2025 Annual Report offers a clear look at how public dollars were invested to make the city safer, more connected, and better prepared for the future.
From improving roads and transportation networks to strengthening emergency services and investing in parks and recreation, 2025 was a year of significant progress across Kelowna. The report highlights achievements tied to all six Council priorities and demonstrates how strategic investments helped support a growing, vibrant community.
One of the biggest takeaways from the report is that less than one-quarter of the City’s budget was funded through property taxes. The remaining revenue came from a mix of user fees, business units, grants, partnerships, and reserves. This diversified approach helped maximize every dollar while keeping property taxes among the lowest in British Columbia.
Community safety remained a major focus throughout the year. Investments in RCMP services, Fire Department resources, Bylaw enforcement, and alternative response programs for people experiencing crises helped create a safer environment for residents. The City also continued advocating to senior levels of government for long-term solutions to complex social challenges affecting communities across the province.
Residents also benefited from major transportation and infrastructure improvements. Historic levels of capital investment accelerated projects designed to improve traffic flow, transit accessibility, cycling routes, and pedestrian safety. By building ahead of demand, the City aims to reduce future disruptions while supporting Kelowna’s continued growth.
Beyond transportation, record investments were made in the facilities and services that residents rely on every day. Parks, recreation centres, utilities, airport infrastructure, civic buildings, and critical water systems all received attention. These projects help ensure Kelowna can continue delivering reliable services while maintaining long-term affordability for taxpayers.
City Manager Doug Gilchrist emphasized the importance of transparency and responsible planning, noting that investments were carefully aligned with community priorities and Kelowna’s vision for 2040. The City’s commitment to financial accountability continues to be recognized nationally, with Kelowna’s Annual Report earning the Canadian Award for Financial Reporting for an impressive 23 consecutive years.
Residents are encouraged to review the report and share their thoughts before Council receives it later this month. Whether you're curious about local infrastructure projects, public safety investments, or financial stewardship, the Annual Report provides valuable insight into how Kelowna is planning for both today and tomorrow.
To explore the full report and learn more about how your tax dollars are working in the community, visit the City of Kelowna’s Annual Report online.
