Peachland's a special place, and anyone who lives here or is considering a move knows it. But beyond the stunning lake views and friendly atmosphere, it's important to understand the nuts and bolts of how the community is managed. The District of Peachland's 2025 Provisional Budget isn't just a collection of numbers; it's a roadmap for the community's future, and it has a direct impact on your real estate investment. Let's break it down in a way that's relevant to homeowners and potential buyers.

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Key Investments

The 2025 budget outlines several key investment areas. These aren't just line items; they're investments in the quality of life that makes Peachland so desirable:

• Infrastructure: The budget allocates significant funds to infrastructure, and that's a good thing for property values. We're talking about roads, sidewalks, water, and sewer systems – the essentials that keep a community functioning smoothly. Specifically, the budget mentions ongoing work on the Water Treatment Plant, a project with a total budget of which a substantial portion has already been invested. There are also investigations into expanding the community sewer collection system. These are long-term projects, and while they might not be glamorous, they're absolutely crucial for maintaining a healthy and sustainable community. The budget also includes $444,038 for General Capital Asset Renewal, which is a proactive approach to maintaining existing infrastructure.
• Asset Management: Peachland is updating its Asset Management Investment Plan, which hasn't been fully updated since 2012. This means they're taking a serious look at the condition of existing infrastructure and planning for future repairs and replacements. This is important because it helps prevent sudden, large tax increases down the road. It's like preventative maintenance for the entire community!
• A Vibrant Downtown: The budget emphasizes a "Vibrant Downtown," and that's music to the ears of anyone who owns property in or near the downtown core. The Downtown Revitalization Implementation Strategy is getting $150,000, and improvements to Heritage Park (including a new stage and potential washroom expansions) are also on the agenda. A thriving downtown attracts residents and businesses, which boosts property values.
• Addressing Housing Needs: While the budget doesn't include massive new funding for housing construction, it does acknowledge the need for more housing choices. There's a review of short-term rental policies and consideration of land use amendments to increase housing options. This is a complex issue, but it's clear that Peachland is thinking about how to accommodate growth while maintaining its character.
• Parks and Recreation: Peachland is known for its beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, and the budget reflects that. Projects like the Turner Park upgrades (with $850,000 from the Growing Communities Fund), Sanderson Dog Park improvements ($100,000 from the Growing Communities Fund), and ongoing maintenance of Centennial Way all contribute to the quality of life that makes Peachland so attractive. These amenities are a major draw for residents and can positively impact property values.
• Firehall: The budget includes work on the design and build of the Protective Services building in 2025/2026, with parcel taxes phased in: $50 in 2024, $100 in 2025, and $250 in 2026.

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The Tax Question: Understanding the 6.65% Increase

Nobody likes a tax increase, but it's important to understand why the 2025 budget proposes a 6.65% property tax increase. The document is very clear: this increase is primarily to fund ongoing operational expenses and to contribute to reserves for future infrastructure expenditures. Peachland, like many municipalities, has aging infrastructure, and proactive investment is necessary to avoid much larger costs down the line. The average assessed home in Peachland will see an increase of approximately $111. The document also highlights a phased approach to parcel taxes for the new Protective Services Building.

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The budget document emphasizes transparency and community engagement. There's an open house scheduled, and opportunities for residents to "Talk With Council." This means you have a chance to ask questions, voice concerns, and be part of the decision-making process.

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The Bottom Line for Real Estate

The 2025 Provisional Budget for the District of Peachland shows a community that's investing in its future. The focus on infrastructure, downtown revitalization, parks and recreation, and asset management all point to a positive outlook for Peachland's real estate market. While the property tax increase is a consideration, it's presented within the context of long-term planning and a commitment to maintaining and enhancing the community's appeal. The budget also highlights specific funding allocations, such as $313,358 in uncommitted funds from the Community Works Fund and $2,766,000 from the Growing Communities Fund, demonstrating the resources available for these initiatives. The total general revenues budgeted for 2025 are $18,911,378, up from $16,952,368 in 2024.

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Source: Peachland