Information Bulletin: Budget 2026 Deliberations Begin February 17

On February 17, 2026, Sooke Council begins deliberations on the 2026 municipal budget, starting with a focused review of policing services within the overall operating budget.

The municipal budget process is continuous. Each year, as property taxes are being paid, the next budget cycle begins with citizen engagement - including a community survey and pop-ups held throughout Sooke. This early input establishes the foundation for financial planning.

For Budget 2026, approximately 1,700 voices contributed through an online survey and 18 community pop-ups held between mid-June and August 2025. The results were presented to Council on October 20, 2025, in the What We Heard Report.

From November through January, Council received service area overviews outlining operational realities across departments - including financial pressures, contractual obligations, organizational drivers, business continuity requirements and capacity considerations - all reviewed in the context of community priorities.

Council is now entering the deliberation phase. In public meetings, Council reviews draft budgets and provides direction on potential adjustments to service levels or capital investments before adopting the 2026–2030 Financial Plan and Tax Rate Bylaw. By legislation, the Tax Rate Bylaw must be adopted by May 15 each year.

February 17 Focus: Policing Services

The February 17 Committee of the Whole meeting will focus on policing.

Policing is the largest single service within the District’s operating budget. RCMP contract costs, staffing levels, equipment requirements, and provincial standards strongly influence overall municipal expenditures and property tax scenarios. Council will review these cost drivers within the broader context of the full operating budget.

Public Process and How to Follow Along

Budget deliberations take place in public meetings. While some meetings occur during the day, all are open to the public, livestreamed, and recorded for later viewing.

Meeting materials and agendas are available online:

·         February 17 Agenda: https://sooke.civicweb.net/document/107044/

Residents can follow the full Budget 2026 process, review engagement results, and stay informed at: letstalk.sooke.ca/budget

Before adoption of the Financial Plan and Tax Rate Bylaw, the District will also host a community budget open house to provide another opportunity for residents to learn more and ask questions.

The municipal budget reflects community priorities and establishes the financial framework for the year ahead.

Related resources:

• 2026 Budget What We Heard Report
• 2026 Budget What We Heard Presentation Slide Deck - October 20, 2025