A commentary by two Langford residents.
Langford Coun. Keith Yacucha’s May 31 commentary, “Why Langford’s tax increase is a smart move for our future,” presented a misleading narrative that needs to be addressed with facts and context.
Langford’s director of finance has confirmed that Langford’s property taxes historically remained below 3% under the previous administrations.
This provided for long-term stability which fostered a thriving, award-winning community, enabling significant growth and development.
Under the leadership of former mayor Stew Young and former councils, the city saw the construction of essential infrastructure such as a new police station, fire halls, city hall, sidewalks, recreation facilities and parks, all while maintaining affordability through low tax rates.
In contrast, under the current council, the taxes on a typical home in Langford have skyrocketed.
Over the past two years, the average annual increase on a representative house has gone up by nearly five times the rate during the period from 2005 to 2022 under Young and previous councils, when the city was able to meet its critical safety needs and legal obligations.
The substantial tax increases imposed by council have made Langford less affordable. The additional financial burden is particularly challenging in the current economic climate, exacerbating the affordability crisis that the administration claims to combat.
Yacucha’s justification for these tax hikes does not hold up when examining council’s spending choices.
The administration has embarked on an unsustainable spending spree, diverting funds to unnecessary and overpriced initiatives. These include frequent and costly junkets to conferences, extensive media training, decorating the mayor’s office, and hiring consultants at the expense of millions of dollars for work that could have been performed by staff.
Additionally, council has provided the YMCA with nearly $1 million more per year, further straining the city’s finances and setting a precedent that opens the city to potential liability.
Despite the increased spending, service levels in Langford have deteriorated. Residents experience longer wait times for city services, marking a decline in efficiency and effectiveness.
Furthermore, the introduction of unnecessary bylaws has stifled business and development, deterring potential growth and investment.
Businesses already pay taxes at a rate more than three times higher than homeowners. Under the policies of previous councils, businesses were attracted to Langford, creating jobs and reducing the tax burden on homeowners by shifting the tax base from 97% residential and 3% commercial to 70% residential and 30% commercial.
The pattern of poor financial management and declining service standards raises serious concerns about the leadership capabilities of Langford council members.
Langford residents deserve transparent, accountable leadership that prioritizes sustainable growth and responsible financial management. The sharp increase in property taxes, coupled with wasteful spending and declining service levels, highlights the urgent need for a re-evaluation of the administration’s approach.
Langford needs to return to the principles of fiscal responsibility and efficient service delivery that previously allowed the city to flourish.
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