KELOWNA, B.C. — Kelowna City Council has approved its final 2026 budget, confirming a 4.40 per cent property tax increase.
The increase works out to about $115 a year, or $9.60 a month, for the average homeowner, according to the City of Kelowna. Municipal officials describe the hike as one of the lowest in the province.
Mayor Tom Dyas said the $1.1‑billion budget focuses on services residents rely on while maintaining tax stability.
“This budget delivers on the priorities that make a real difference in people’s lives — safer streets, reliable services, and infrastructure that keeps pace with growth,”
Public safety is a key focus, with funding approved for 11 new front‑line positions, including five RCMP officers, four firefighters and two bylaw officers. The additions are partly supported by a one‑per‑cent public safety levy.
Nearly half of the budget is earmarked for transportation and infrastructure, including roads, parks and facilities. The projects form part of the city’s $2.8‑billion, 10‑year capital plan, which aims to bundle and accelerate construction projects.
The budget also continues work under the city’s Building a Stronger Kelowna initiative, which includes redevelopment of the Parkinson Recreation Centre, new community centres in Glenmore, Mission and Rutland, and upgrades to sports fields.
Funding has also been allocated to address rising costs for core services such as transit, water and wastewater utilities, road repairs and park maintenance. Additional investment is going toward digital services and cybersecurity upgrades.
City officials note that property taxes account for less than one‑quarter of Kelowna’s overall budget, with the remainder funded through user fees, utility charges, developer contributions, grants and reserves.
The city says it remains among the most tax‑stable municipalities in B.C. when cumulative tax increases over the past five years are considered.
Council also reaffirmed its commitment to working with government and community partners to expand affordable housing and supports for people experiencing homelessness, including below‑market rental housing and complex‑care facilities.
Property tax notices will be mailed starting May 23. Property owners have until July 2 to pay their taxes and claim the provincial Home Owner Grant to avoid a 10 per cent penalty.
