City launches survey inviting residents to weigh in on service priorities and funding strategies.
Coquitlam is inviting residents to participate in its online budget survey for the 2026 fiscal year. The survey is open until September 14 at LetsTalkCoquitlam.ca/budget2026, and is designed to gather input on how the city should allocate funds while maintaining service quality.
The budget survey offers residents an opportunity to express their priorities for city services, as property taxes and utility fees finance most city operations. Feedback will assist in balancing service expectations with fiscal feasibility.
Facing rising costs and external pressures, Coquitlam is addressing challenges such as increasing prices for goods and services, labor shortages, and potential tariffs. New provincial regulations are also affecting cost recovery strategies, creating additional reliance on property taxes to develop new infrastructure.
Council and city staff aim to maintain essential services while promoting affordability in the development of the 2026 budget. The city is dedicated to managing expenses responsibly to ensure a high quality of life for its residents.
Public engagement is vital in shaping a budget that addresses economic challenges while aligning with community preferences. This process also educates participants about budgeting and expenditure decisions within the city.
The budget preparation involves inputs from the council, city staff, cultural partners, and the local community. Coquitlam follows council-approved financial policies to responsibly plan essential services and infrastructure.
Residents curious about city expenditures can access Coquitlam OpenBook, a data visualization tool offering insights into city budgets and projects. It provides information on various capital budgets, project details, and the operating budget, catering to those seeking a comprehensive understanding of city finances.
For further details, the city’s financial planning staff can be reached via email. Additionally, extensive documentation on city budgets can be accessed through the city’s website.
Coquitlam acknowledges the hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓-derived origin of its name and honors its location on traditional and ancestral lands associated with the kʷikʷəƛ̓əm and other Coast Salish Peoples.