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Squamish residents are looking at a possible 9.6% tax increase, and some of that hard-earned money will likely go to a public art worth $300,000. This is what the district plans to spend on a major public art piece in 2025, one of the more expensive capital projects the district is planning as part of the budget. It hasn’t been approved by council yet.
The District hasn’t specified where the proposed art would be located but is clear on its purpose: “To enhance a public space through the addition of a piece of Coast Salish Public Art.” The $300,000 budget would include hiring a consultant to create a community consultation plan and conduct a call for art. “This project works towards Truth and Reconciliation by adding Coast Salish artwork within the community,” District notes in a brief statement.
District is inviting the community to provide input, either online or in person, as the council discusses the draft budget in October. Residents can give their input here and attend a Budget open house on Wednesday, November 7, from 6 pm to 8 pm at Brennan Park Recreation Centre.
New capital projects in the budget:
Squamish Search and Rescue Relocation Phase 2 ($1.5 million)
There are plans to relocate the Search and Rescue to the Squamish Airport – Don Patrick Field. District says this will allow SAR to provide ground and inland water search and rescue services at a long-term location.
Fleet Public Works – Bike Lane Sweeper with Snow and Ice Control ($246000)
Public Works has identified the need for a new machine that sweeps and plows sidewalks and bike paths to ensure active transportation infrastructure remains clear and safe.
Finch Road Reconstruction ($1.8 million)
The Loggers East area is experiencing significant development and major below-ground infrastructure upgrades, including a new Fortis pipeline.
The District aims to complete a rebuild of the eastern portion of Finch Drive to address aging pavement infrastructure and facilitate the installation of a developer-paid multi-use path. The ultimate scope of this project is being determined and will depend on external funding provided by Fortis.
Depot Road Separated Active Transportation Infrastructure ($1.5 million)
District says this will ensure a safe place for people walking and biking along Depot Road and accessing Brackendale Elementary and Don Ross Middle School.
Paradise Valley Bailey Bridge Abutment Replacement ($1.2 million)
This project has been moved to 2026 and the cost has increased by $500,000.
Reja says
Oh, great, ANOTHER consultant hired, ANOTHER community consultation plan. I can’t believe this District would even consider spending $300,000 for an ART installation while cutting funding for a playground to go along with the Splash Park. What do you think Squamish kids & parents are going to hang out at most….a playground or an art installation? Ridiculous idea. Put OUR money to work for US, please.
Cindy says
300k for art when many people can hardly afford the ongoing increase to taxes. Council needs to give their heads a shake and pay attention!
D M says
DOS is mimicking Whistler more and more. Instead of investing in more doctors and affordable housing, this is how you use taxpayer money? Wow, pretentious much?
K.Smith says
Time for the DOS to make budget cuts, not endless increases that the Taxpayer has no interest in.
Less Government, not more is the solution. More accountability for OUR money, not less. Cuts, not increases.
It is well past time to take our Community back from these detached, self-serving bureaucrats.