Edmontonians weigh in on how city should handle proposed tax increase [Video]

Just one day after the City of Edmonton released its spring operating budget adjustment report suggesting a further tax hike, Edmontonians are sharing their opinions on how the city should handle the tax increase.

“I was having a heart attack, it’s absolutely ridiculous,” said Bernie Pettigrew. “Especially after city council gave themselves a raise, which they could have declined. It would have been a nice gesture.”

Pettigrew said she’d be open to seeing cuts to policing, and alternatives to green space maintenance.

“We’re not the only city dealing with this. There are some pretty creative ideas out there,” she added.

“I’m optimistic that the city is going to work for its people, to try and improve things for its people,” said Kyle Kennedy-LeBlanc.

The city’s report recommends a 8.7 per cent tax increase for 2024 — an additional 2.1 per cent increase over what was approved in November 2023.

The city said the tax increase will be higher …