District of Squamish will delay hiring staff for new positions and reduce travel and conference budgets as part of changes related to COVID-19.
The district has also delayed several capital projects, including renovations to the Brennan Park Recreation Centre.
Postponing capital projects means district will need $838,800 less than what had previously been planned for 2020.
The district has also reviewed tax rates and says there will be 0.5% drop in the tax rates from 2019. The changes, however, will impact homes and businesses differently, depending on property tax assessments.
Late penalties have also been relaxed this year. Property taxes and utilities for both business and residential property owners are due July 2, but penalties will not be applied on late payments until October 1, 2020.
“There are many priorities we have tried to balance in this financial plan amendment, recognizing that we must be resilient and aim to ensure community services and operations continue to support the community in the short, medium and long term,” said Mayor Karen Elliott.
“And in a time when household finances and business cash flows are challenged, we are doing what we can to ease that burden.”
