“Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding the recent announcement about the E-Comm 911 services costs.
Mayor and Council have been engaging with the province on this matter and have also discussed it with the Minister at UBCM. For North Cowichan, the projected costs for E-Comm 911 services are estimated to be between $647,067 and $766,519 (April – December of 2025). We had already budgeted $575,000 for 2025 in anticipation of these costs. However, if the actual costs reach the higher end of $766,519, this would necessitate an additional 0.5% tax increase.
We understand the concerns about the financial burden this places on our taxpayers and are committed to voicing our thoughts on this additional expense. We have communicated our position to the province and will continue to do so. I hope this has answered your question. Thanks kindly, *staff member*”
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