REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Annual Review of Proposed Fees and Charges for Fiscal Year 2025/26
Report
REPORT IN BRIEF
The City's fees and charges are reviewed and adjusted annually in accordance with Council Policy 7.1.1 (Fiscal-Long Range Goals and Financial Policies). This annual evaluation ensures that all fees and charges of the City are aligned with the costs of providing fee-related services, except for those fees that are legally mandated, market-based, or subsidized at the Council's direction.
Each year, the City Council reviews recommended changes to the City's fees and charges. The June 3, 2025, public hearing provides an opportunity for public input and comment on proposed fees and charges. This hearing will be followed by Council consideration to adopt updated and new fees on June 17, 2025.
BACKGROUND
The attached Fee Schedule (Attachment 1) references all City fees, except utility rates, SMaRT Station Public Haul Gate rates, and fees for recreation services. Fees related to utility services (i.e., water, garbage, and sewer) are scheduled to be adopted on June 17, 2025, by separate Council action when the utility rates are set (RTC No. 25-0365). SMaRT Station Public Haul Gate Rates are established administratively by the Director of Environmental Services based on disposition costs for recyclables and residues, allowing for the flexibility to adjust rates as market conditions change, which is the standard practice for transfer stations and disposal facilities. Fees for recreation services are established administratively by the Director of Library and Recreation Services. Those fees are established based on market conditions and Council-adopted policies to ensure fairness and accessibility.
EXISTING POLICY
Council Policy 7.1.1 Fiscal -Long Range Goals and Financial Policies:
7.1B.5.2 - User charges and fees should be adjusted at least annually to avoid sharp changes.
7.1B.5.4 - User fees should be established at levels which reflect the ful...
Click here for full text