Sohi calls 13% tax increase ‘unacceptable’ as Edmonton announces clean energy program
A recent poll found that 80% of Edmontonians are struggling with bills, and 72% feel that the mayor and city councillors are "out of touch." Only 26% want them re-elected.
Edmonton Mayor Amarjeet Sohi defended the city's Clean Energy Improvement Program (CEIP) on Friday, emphasizing its importance despite the looming 13% property tax hike facing residents next year. The program, which aims to help homeowners install solar panels, upgrade insulation, and purchase heat pumps, is part of the city's broader green initiative to reduce emissions and tackle climate change.
“This program is essential because it allows us to reduce emissions, and climate change is an existential threat,” Sohi said. He added that it could also help homeowners lower utility costs while creating jobs.
The CEIP will provide $20 million in financing to homeowners and businesses, to be repaid over time through additional property taxes, but only by those who directly benefit from the program. The overall cost to operate the program is estimated at $1 million per year, funded by Edmonton taxpayers.
Edmonton currently supports at least 39 taxpayer-funded grants and programs, including $15,000 grants for schools to install bike parking, up to $2,000 for businesses to buy winter patio furniture, and $5,000 grants for murals. Some have questioned whether these programs are essential, especially as the city grapples with high property taxes.
Mayor Sohi acknowledged the affordability challenges many Edmontonians face, stressing that a 13% tax increase is "unacceptable" and that the city is working to reduce it.
Councillor Tim Cartmell, however, believes the city should reevaluate its funding priorities and focus on core services, reflecting feedback he’s received from residents. He noted that many feel the city should focus on essential services rather than what some see as non-essential programs.
A recent poll found that 80% of Edmontonians are struggling with bills, and 72% feel that the mayor and city councillors are "out of touch." Only 26% want them re-elected.
On Whyte Avenue, opinions varied. Some residents like Chris Swenson felt property taxes are too high, while others, like Matt Barker, supported the city's investment in programs that promote a more vibrant and walkable city.
One proposal for cost-saving measures involves pay freezes for city councillors, an idea supported by Councillor Aaron Paquette as a show of solidarity during budget cuts.
City staff are set to present budget recommendations in early November, with a heated debate expected to follow that could extend into December.
