The City of Port Alberni, British Columbia, officially adopted its 2026-2030 Five Year Financial Plan on February 18, 2026, resulting in a 6.82 per cent tax rate increase for the average single-family residential home this year.
Local leaders finalized the plan to balance the rising costs of city services with the need to maintain infrastructure, such as community buildings and roads. The budget outlines municipal spending on staffing and various local projects over the next five years.
The process to create this budget began in September 2025 and included several public meetings and sessions where the council gathered feedback from residents. Mayor Sharie Minions noted that a more collaborative approach this year helped the council follow information more easily and make thoughtful decisions about how to use city resources.
City staff noted that the new plan focuses on keeping up with current service needs while managing rising costs. This budget aims to keep the city running smoothly while addressing the impact of higher prices on local projects.
Although the five-year plan is now finalized, the city council expects to vote on the 2026 Tax Rates Bylaw later this spring. This will confirm the exact amounts that property owners will see on their upcoming tax bills.
