Frequently asked questions
Public safety, including fire and police
Utilities, like sewer and water
Arts, culture and community services, such as public art and social services
City planning, urban design and sustainability
Recreation and community centres
Childcare spaces
Fire halls
Bridges and roads
Public safety, including fire and police
Utilities, like sewer and water
Arts, culture and community services, such as public art and social services
City planning, urban design and sustainability
How does the City spend your tax dollars?
The City funds over 80 public services through the budget. This includes things like:
What is the difference between operating and capital budgets?
The capital budget is developed every four years and is used to maintain, improve or build new buildings and other City assets. This includes things like:
These are large projects which may take several years. The capital costs included in each annual budget are linked to a four-year capital plan. The four-year capital plan is approved by Council and voted on by the public in every municipal election.
Capital projects are partly funded by government grants and contributions from property developers through development cost levies.
The operating budget is the yearly budget that funds the services and programs residents and businesses rely on. This includes things like:
The City’s operating budget is funded primarily by your property taxes, along with a variety of other revenue sources, including utility fees, parking revenue, program fees and license and development fees.