The municipality of Summerland is seeking elector approval for long-term borrowing for two road improvement projects.
The municipality is using the Alternative Approval Process to determine support for these borrowing projects, which means they will go forward unless enough residents object.
The projects are for upgrades on Wharton Street and Victoria Road South.
The Victoria Road South project requires borrowing up to $2,693,470 for 25 years to finance upgrades to Victoria Road South.
The work includes installing a multi-use pathway, road reconstruction and asphalt upgrades, pedestrian connectivity and water main and water service replacement.
If this project is approved, it would result in a cost to the average household of $40.31 a year. This would be recovered by a property tax increase of 0.75 per cent and a water rate increase of 1.55 per cent, beginning in 2026, the municipality states.
Improvements were made to other parts of this road previously.
The Wharton Street project requires borrowing of $3,365,080 over 25 years for upgrades including road reconstruction, storm water improvements, pedestrian connectivity and park enhancements between Kelly Avenue and Victoria Road.
This project would add $40.26 a year to the average household in Summerland. The money would be recovered through a tax increase of 2.26 per cent, beginning in 2026.
Under the Community Charter, residents have an opportunity to submit an Electoral Response Form within 30 days if they oppose the long-term borrowing. Those who support the project or do not care do not need to do anything.
If 10 per cent of eligible electors, or 1,002 people, indicate their opposition, electoral assent is not obtained. This means the municipality cannot proceed with the borrowing without holding a referendum.
The Alternative Approval Process period will begin Jan. 23, 2025, with the deadline for submitting Electoral Response Forms on Feb. 25, 2025 at 5 p.m. Notices will be given through the local media and on the municipality’s website.
The Electoral Response Forms will be available at Municipal Hall, 13211 Henry Ave. during the approval process period.
The forms must be submitted to the corporate officer by email, fax or in person at municipal hall.
