About Finance & Taxes

Revenue and Taxation 

Annual property taxes are one of the largest revenue sources for the City and are critical to providing municipal services in the City. The City also collects taxes on behalf of the Cariboo Regional District, taxes for schools, public transportation, BC Assessment and Municipal Finance Authority of BC.

Tax time is always the busiest time at Williams Lake City Hall. We offer many options to pay - including paying at the bank, online, by check, or in person.
 
For information about taxation, visit our Property Taxes page, or on how to read your tax notice, click here. 
 
Tax Rates per $1000 of assessed value are available here.
    
Expenditures
All City spending is governed by the 5 Year Financial Plan which must be approved by City Council and must comply with the guidelines for municipalities contained in the Local Government Act. 
 
All Purchasing is managed by the Purchasing Department in compliance with government purchasing standards and regulations.
 
Investments
The City has established guidelines and procedures within the framework of the Municipal Act for the placement of City funds. Council has endorsed an investment policy which identifies the advancement of fiscal strategies, policies and practices related to investments which enhance the professional management of the City's financial resources. The City enjoys a competitive rate of return on investments when compared to other municipal and industry benchmarks. 
 
Customer Service
Finance also provides front counter customer services and call center services for the City. 

City staff are committed to a strong customer service focus in responding to various issues and to using prudent business practices in the delivery of services  to both internal and external customers. 
   
Tax time is the most engaged time for the Customer Service Counter. In order to make services more accessible, the City provides internet and phone services to the public. See How to Use Online Financial Services for more information.