The Town of Comox staff will be presenting the proposed 2025 operating budget to council on Feb. 19.
During the council meeting, which starts at 5 p.m., staff will present the budget for council approval. However, there is a multi-week process to get to actual approval of the budget, including more deliberations and multiple readings of the motion to approve the budget. Staff expects the budget to be approved at the March 5 meeting.
Council will be using the 2022-2026 strategic plan as a guiding document for the budget, and it will help determine the projects and deliverables that council wants to achieve in the coming year.
"The draft budget has two main goals," a release from the Town of Comox says. "The proposed budget will focus on investment in infrastructure renewal and support for existing programs and services.
"For the last several years, Town staff have been developing the data to better understand the recognized infrastructure gap, which must be prioritized," it continues. "An infrastructure gap refers to the Town鈥檚 need to fund and support ongoing work and replacement of facilities, roads, underground pipes, parks, trails and sidewalks, etc.
"Investing in our town鈥檚 infrastructure is crucial for the future sustainability of our community. Well-maintained roads, parks, trails and facilities are essential assets that deteriorate over time, requiring replacement or upkeep, especially for those constructed decades ago to ensure continued functionality for future generations."
Some key infrastructure details include the $362 million in assets owned by the town, which equal an average of $63,500 per household. Also, the community requires $3.2 million to be invested in infrastructure per year to maintain the current service levels.
Details will be available after the budget meeting next week.
"The community can follow the budget process by visiting the Town鈥檚 website at ," the release says. "Residents are encouraged to participate actively by addressing Council in person during the 鈥榩ublic question period鈥� at the regular Council meetings listed in the table or by emailing council@comox.ca . Whether in person at 1801B Beaufort Avenue or listening online on the Town of Comox YouTube Channel - your involvement shapes the future of our Town."
