The 2026 Operating and Capital Budget was presented to Council for first reading on December 2, 2025. Residents were invited to share feedback through the Let’s Talk online platform and at two in-person Open Houses on January 29 and February 4, 2026. Council considered this input prior to the second and third readings held on February 17, 2026.
Following Council’s deliberation in February, the approval of Lake Country’s 2026 Operating and Capital Budget, as part of the five-year financial plan, will result in a 5.75 percent increase to the municipal, policing and fire portion of property taxes (down from 6.25 percent at first reading). For the typical (median) single-family home, this represents an approximate increase of $160 annually or $13 monthly.
"Council has worked hard to balance the high service levels our community expects—especially in policing, fire, and bylaw services—with a 5.75% tax increase (lower than last year), fulfilling our commitment to fiscal consistency," says Mayor Ireland. "By diversifying our tax base through initiatives like rezoning land for future light industrial and the Lake Country Business Park, we are building the long-term stability needed for major infrastructure. This year, we are also prioritizing those smaller, neighborhood-level projects that have been on the horizon for a while, ensuring every resident feels the benefit of a higher quality of life right at home."
As the District continues to manage cost pressures in areas such as policing, fire protection, bylaw services, and infrastructure, Council remains focused on balancing the need to maintain and improve essential services while minimizing the impact on taxpayers.
“Thank you to the community for all the questions, comments, and feedback through the engagement process” says Trevor James, Chief Financial Officer. “As staff we look forward to delivering on all the projects included in the budget as well as providing the day-to-day services the community expects.”
View the 2026-2030 Financial Plan
For more information contact:
Trevor James, CPA, CA
Chief Financial Officer
tjames@lakecountry.bc.ca