May 12, 2020

Colwood Council will not increase municipal taxes in 2020, recognizing the financial stress the current pandemic has created for many residents facing layoffs, reduced hours and business closures. 

The City will also bring forward a plan to align commercial tax rates with the regional average over the next five years, to support Colwood businesses in a strong economic recovery.

Easing up on due dates and penalties

Residential Properties: Property taxes are due July 2, 2020, but there will be no late payment penalty for residential properties until August 1 (5%) and then October 1 (5%).

Commercial Properties: For commercial properties, penalties won’t apply until October 1st (10%) to give businesses time to reopen, rehire laid off employees and get back to business.

Paying taxes during COVID-19

Please pay online or by mail. We are encouraging people to stay home and stay safe at this time. Access to pay at City Hall will be by appointment only.

Ongoing City services & keeping tax rates steady

How did the City hold taxes at 0%? 

To bring the rate down from the proposed 3.5% to 0%, several service level increases will be deferred until 2021, the 1% that is usually set aside for future sustainable infrastructure replacement will be held back this year, and several transfers to reserves will be delayed until 2021.

Will this mean reduced CIty services in 2020?  

Current levels of service are expected to be maintained, while following the direction of the Provincial Health Officer with respect to pandemic response and recovery.

Will taxes jump in future years?

The Colwood Financial Plan is a 5-year plan which forecasts to 2024. For 2021 the plan projects a return to the tax increase that was originally proposed for this year, at 3.5%.

Does this mean no improvements in 2020?

Many of the planned capital projects are funded by grants, therefore projects are expected to proceed. Below are just a few examples:

  • A roundabout at Latoria Road and Veterans Memorial Parkway
  • Road upgrades at Allandale Road and Veterans Memorial Parkway
  • Design work for upgrades along portions of Metchosin Road and Sooke Road
  • Sidewalk, cycling and crosswalk programs.
  • Design work for upgrades along Metchosin Road and Sooke Road.
  • More details about planned projects and improvements can be found in the Financial Plan and the Strategic Plan