Finance and Budget

Sun Peaks' Budget Process

Balancing the needs of today with saving for the future is the core of our budget process. 

Legislation requires municipalities to prepare a financial plan, or budget, every year that includes both the operating and capital budgets for the coming five years. This work is about detailing the costs of services that must be delivered and takes into account past expenditures, forecasts, capital spending on projects and the long-term needs of the community.  

Once it’s determined how much is needed to cover these expenditures, this amount is then used to determine annual property taxes, which are calculated for every property based on their assessed value.  

Funding collected through property taxes, fees and other charges goes towards:  

  • programs and services; 
  • critical infrastructure such as roads, water, and wastewater; and  
  • managing other assets like parks, trails and facilities on behalf of the community. 

Community involvement

Community involvement is an important component in developing budget priorities. Whether you rent, own, or are here just for a season, your voice helps shape the budget. Many of the everyday services you use are funded through tax dollars and user fees. This includes recreation programs, maintenance and upkeep of municipal buildings, water and wastewater services, public safety and more. 

You have the opportunity to have your say by completing surveys, attending or asking questions at meetings, and writing letters to your Council. Our goal is to be fully transparent and responsive to the changing needs of the community.  

Budget feedback can be sent to dof@sunpeaksmunicipality.ca