British Columbia

Sidney Residents Can Now See Where Their Tax Money Goes

By

Emma Kelly
February 27, 2026 10:52 am

The Town of Sidney, British Columbia, updated its website in February 2026 to help homeowners see exactly where their tax dollars go. The new information lists six outside groups that collect money through local property tax notices, showing that the town only controls a portion of the total bill.

Residents can now see a clear list of organizations that set their own tax rates, including the Capital Regional District, the Capital Regional Hospital District, and BC Assessment. Other groups involved are the Municipal Finance Authority, the Regional Transit Authority, and the Vancouver Island Regional Library.

This update comes after a 10.67 per cent tax hike was approved for the 2025 budget year to cover costs for services and infrastructure. By identifying these groups, the town makes it easier for residents to contact the right organization if they want to question certain parts of their bill.

The town also collects provincial school taxes, which can be lowered by the Home Owner Grant for those who qualify. For 2026, the Province of British Columbia set the threshold for this grant at $2.075 million to reflect falling property values across the region.

Property tax notices are typically mailed out in May and must be paid by early July. Residents who have specific questions about the costs from outside agencies are encouraged to reach out to those groups directly.