Help shape Saanich using our new budget simulation tool

Information Bulletin
For immediate release

Help shape Saanich using our new budget simulation tool

Saanich, BC – The District of Saanich’s draft online budget education tool is now available. This year, we are excited to be offering a new way for you to have your say on the 2024 Financial Plan.

Saanich residents are encouraged to participate in the online budget simulation tool and survey which provide an opportunity to explore and adjust how their tax dollars are allocated to Saanich’s programs.

The draft Financial Plan includes the annual budget for the municipality as well as the proposed 2024 Saanich Police and Greater Victoria Public Library budgets, all for Council’s consideration.

Educational resources

CitizenLab is our brand-new engagement tool that offers a more modern, engaging, and easy-to-use method of gathering your valuable input. While you’re not required to register to view information on the budget process, you do need to set up an account to provide your opinions. This is to ensure we are gathering the best local input to make informed strategic financial planning decisions.

Comments submitted by residents in the survey will be provided to Council as citizen feedback.

The tool is available from now until February 14, 2024.  

Share your input

Saanich will hold three special budget meetings from March 5 until April 16, 2024. At these Committee of the Whole meetings, Saanich residents are welcome to share their feedback with Council during the public input sections.

All Council meetings are available via live webcast, and the webcasts are recorded and include presentation materials which can be viewed at your convenience.

You are encouraged to share your input by:

• Emailing budget@saanich.ca or council@saanich.ca by noon on the day of the meeting;
• Mailing or dropping off written feedback at the Municipal Hall drop box by noon on the day of the meeting; or
• Registering to call in and speak at the meeting. Registration details are available on the meeting agenda.

In-person attendance in the Council Chambers is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. It’s recommended that those who wish to attend the meeting in person have an alternate plan for electronic participation in case space is not available.

Next steps

Council deliberates on the draft Financial Plan over the next couple of months. Council will adopt the Financial Plan and Tax Rate Bylaws by May 15, 2024.

Learn more

Access the budget education tool and survey, budget meeting schedule, draft Financial Plan, and other educational resources at saanich.ca/budget.

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Media contact:
Jennifer Lockhart
Senior Manager Financial Services
Jennifer.Lockhart@saanich.ca
250-475-5494 ext 3586