Residents Challenge $391.5 Million Financial Plan in Nanaimo

Residents of the Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) expressed significant concerns during a public board meeting on December 9, 2023, as the board approved a five-year financial plan totaling $391.5 million. The plan, which covers the fiscal years from 2026 to 2030, received a weighted two-thirds vote despite opposition from multiple community delegates.

The meeting featured six speakers, including a representative from the RDN Taxpayers Alliance. This group urged the board to reconsider the budget, suggesting the elimination or postponement of all major capital projects except those related to health care and critical infrastructure. They also called for a hiring freeze to manage costs more effectively.

Following these delegations, RDN board chair Stuart McLean initiated a budget debate, during which he urged attendees to maintain order and respect. He indicated that disruptions could lead to the removal of individuals from the meeting. The board has the authority to amend the financial plan, particularly concerning the tax requisition, until its scheduled adoption on February 24, 2024.

The approved five-year financial plan allocates $204.8 million for operating expenses and $186.7 million for capital expenditures. The proposed tax requisition stands at $101.9 million, reflecting a 7.2 percent increase from the previous year. It is important to note that the tax increase will vary for each household based on the services available within their specific area of the RDN.

With the plan’s approval, RDN staff can begin implementing projects and operational changes that have already received the board’s endorsement. Vanessa Craig, the Director for Electoral Area B, commented on the budget adjustments, stating, “We’ve actually done the work to change the budget, to reduce some things, and we’ve had to adapt for capital cost increases. By adopting this now and recognizing there are going to be additional changes, I think it gives us a starting point, and we’ll take some more steps before the end of the fiscal year.”

The financial plan is reviewed and debated annually, reflecting the evolving needs and priorities of the community. As residents continue to voice their concerns, the RDN board faces the challenge of balancing fiscal responsibility with community expectations.