Dear Neighbours,
On February 25, the CVRD Board finalized the 2026 Five-Year Financial Plan. In an era of high costs and regional economic shifts, my focus remains on one thing: responsible stewardship.
The 2026 Budget: A Shift Toward Restraint
The approved tax increase is 3.87%—the third lowest since 2007.
While this reflects a deliberate move toward fiscal discipline, I advocated for a 2.5% target to better align with the reality of our local economy. With the permanent closure of the Crofton pulp mill and the Chemainus sawmill shutdown through 2026, our region is feeling the weight of job losses and inflation.
Affordability is not a slogan—it is a responsibility. While we didn’t reach the 2.5% mark, the push for discipline prevented a much higher increase.
Listening to Area G
Your feedback directly shaped this year’s decisions. Because of your input:
• No Yard Waste Tipping Fees: We heard your concerns about illegal dumping and "fee fatigue." This service will remain tax-funded to discourage backyard burning and protect our environment.
• Streamlined Services: The Board voted to eliminate the $750,000 economic development service. Growth is important, but every dollar spent must be tied to clear policy and measurable results.
• Competitive Rates: Area G remains the second-lowest tax jurisdiction per $100,000 of assessment in the CVRD.
Water Infrastructure: Planning for Resilience
Infrastructure is the backbone of our community. We are currently moving forward with several critical projects:
• Stocking Lake Dam: Replacement design is underway and fully funded by the Growing Communities Fund—meaning zero impact on your property taxes.
• System Reliability: Two new groundwater wells are being connected to ensure a stable supply.
• Future Filtration: We are evaluating cost-effective surface water filtration and shared servicing models to meet Island Health requirements without compromising long-term affordability.
Join Me: Saltair Community Meeting
I want to hear from you directly. Please join me to discuss the budget, water security, and our Official Community Plan (OCP).
• When: March 8 at 2:00 PM
• Where: Saltair Community Centre
• Topics: 2026 Budget, Water Infrastructure, OCP/LAP Updates.
I look forward to your questions and your input.
Jesse McClinton
Director, Area G
Sunday, March 8, 2026 at 8:18AM 
