Lumby and Cherryville residents will see a slight hike in taxes for recreation and culture.
The White Valley Parks, Recreation and Culture Committee’s 2013 budget calls for a 0.48 per cent increase in the tax requisition. That will generate $3,644.
“All programs that we had slated are full steam ahead,” said Rick Fairbairn, chairperson.
A 0.48 per cent tax increase will result in an additional $1.60 per household.
Staff had originally recommended a 3.9 per cent increase in taxes. However, directors asked staff to determine if the figure could be lowered.
“We’re able to do that because of the senior government grants we received last year,” said Fairbairn.
“Normally, we had to take money out of reserves for equipment but because the $400,000 in grants was there, we didn’t have to do that and replace the funds this year.”
Among the items the government grants support are a children’s spray park and adult fitness equipment.
As part of the 2013 budget, there will be $6,530 for the Cherryville Artisans Association.
Of this, $4,080 is approved for operational funding and $2,450 to help with the cost of a co-ordinator.
A $1,500 request from the Lumby Historical Society has also been approved.
“This grant would enable the museum to keep up with annual operating and utility bills, which seem to keep going up each year,” said president Mel Ormel.
The White Valley Parks, Recreation and Culture Committee budget must still be adopted by the Regional District of North Okanagan board.
