The Municipality of North Cowichan is considering several factors ahead of its upcoming budget, and despite efforts to limit the impact, staff have recommended a 10.62 per cent property tax increase. The report cited higher costs related to RCMP detachment debt at $615,000, an increase of $943,000 to the RCMP contract, full-year contracts for 2025, inflationary increases to most expenses and a five per cent increase for CUPE employees. Council members expressed concern about the proposed 10.62 per cent increase, with most saying they would like to see the rate reduced by cutting services. Chris Istace said he supports a higher tax rate. “We’re already projecting this 10.62 per cent tax increase, and it doesn’t feel like the right time to pile more on top, recognizing that many residents are struggling with the high cost of living and many are mill workers in North Cowichan,” he said.