Burnaby residents will see a 3.9% increase in property taxes this year, along with an additional 1.9% infrastructure levy, bringing the total increase to 5.8%.

Source: Burnaby Beacon

The tax hike comes as the city faces financial challenges due to reduced revenue from new developments, rising costs, and economic uncertainty linked to US tariffs.

Council Discussion on Tax Increase

Burnaby City Council held a special meeting on March 4 to review the increases and discuss the Draft 2025 Operating Budget. Initially, a 5.37% property tax increase was proposed, but adjustments brought it down to 3.9% before adding the 1.9% infrastructure levy.

During the meeting, some council members expressed concerns about the burden on residents, especially those with fixed or limited incomes. One councillor suggested lowering the increase to 3% to keep it closer to inflation. However, most council members supported the 5.8% total increase, citing the need to maintain city services and infrastructure investments.

Justifications for the Property Tax Increase

Several councillors emphasized the difficult financial choices required to sustain essential services. Some compared Burnaby’s tax increases to neighboring cities, noting that Burnaby has consistently kept tax hikes between 3% and 4% over the past 10 to 15 years. Others pointed out that the city has fallen behind comparable Metro Vancouver municipalities in terms of tax rates.

Economic uncertainty was another key factor discussed. The impact of new US tariffs was raised, with some council members stating that a 3.9% increase is necessary to continue delivering services without cutting back on city programs.

Concerns about long-term infrastructure needs also played a role. Some councillors warned that reducing the tax increase would hurt the city’s ability to fund critical projects, including sewer system maintenance, roadwork, and park development. One councillor argued that homeowners affected by infrastructure failures—such as burst sewer mains—would not consider the small savings from a lower tax increase worth the risk of underfunded maintenance.

Infrastructure Levy and Sidewalk Projects

Another major topic of discussion was Burnaby’s infrastructure needs, particularly the lack of sidewalks in key areas. The 1.9% infrastructure levy is intended to help fund these projects.

During a recent council meeting, officials reviewed the top 10 priority areas for sidewalk construction, highlighting gaps in walkability across the city. The need for more green space and parks was also discussed, with specific mention of Jim Lorimer Park, located in a neighborhood already lacking park amenities.

Final Decision

Despite some pushback, the 5.8% total tax increase was ultimately upheld. Supporters of the increase stressed that cutting back on capital contributions would not benefit residents in the long run. They argued that prioritizing tax reductions primarily benefits wealthier homeowners, while maintaining investment in infrastructure and public services is more equitable for all residents.

With this decision, Burnaby will move forward with its financial plan, ensuring continued investment in essential city services, infrastructure, and community improvements despite economic uncertainties.

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