Bell: 20.2 per cent Calgary property tax hike. What the heck is going on?

Calgary city councillors are considering funding requests from various departments that could result in a 20.2% increase in property taxes next year, according to confidential budget documents obtained by Global News. These funding requests, if approved, would also lead to annual property tax hikes of 8.5%, 9%, and 8.9% in the following years, up to a total of $510 million in additional operating spending by 2030.

Calgary Mayor Jeromy Farkas stated that it is premature to speculate on the exact property tax increase, emphasizing that council will prioritize funding essential infrastructure, public safety, and other long-term investments. City councillors have directed administration to refine the preliminary property tax increases after a 8-7 vote during the July 28 meeting.

However, some councillors, such as Rob Ward and Dan McLean, have called for cutting up to $300 million from the preliminary spending to achieve a more acceptable tax increase. The final budget is expected to be released to the public on November 10, with deliberations beginning on November 23.