Annual Reports 2015 | Page 45

2015 Achievements Community Services Fastest Growing Municipality Figures released in March, 2015 from the Province confirmed that Lake Country is officially the fastestgrowing municipality in British Columbia. With the growing town centre, ever-increasing amenities, and an expanding residential base, this growth has meant that new growth covered the equivalent of a 2% tax increase in municipal revenue for 2015 – which has helped the community update critical infrastructure and amenities while trying to keep taxes as reasonable as possible. Mayor Baker shared: “It’s exciting to see how our community has evolved over the last twenty years since incorporation, embracing change while attempting to respect the key characteristics that make Lake Country so desirable.” Community Survey A community survey was undertaken to gather residents’ input on programs and services offered by the District to assist in making future decisions on community investment. In the on-going effort to engage residents, the District of Lake Country sent a community survey to 1,500 randomly selected residents in May 2015. In total, 593 surveys were completed and mailed back – giving a response rate of 40% and ensuring a statistically valid sample. Ninety-seven percent (97%) of respondents were either very satisfied or somewhat satisfied with their quality of life in Lake Country, and sixty-five percent (65%) were either very satisfied or somewhat satisfied with the municipal services they receive for the taxes they pay. Areas for improvement include: roadways and transportation, which Council and staff are continuing to address through the recently adopted Transportation for Tomorrow 20-year plan; and development of the Town Centre – which is seeing more interest from investors in recent months. On the heels of the CN Rail Corridor Referendum that was completed in April 2015, residents identified parks, trails and recreation as key areas to increase funding in coming years. “It’s fantastic to hear this positive feedback regarding quality of life and value for taxation in Lake Country, and get feedback on municipal services. We are dedicated to continuing to strive for excellence, improve the quality of life for residents and get the greatest value out of every tax dollar spent,” noted Jamie McEwan, Community Development Manager. “The responses from this community survey identify a number of positives, and provide us direction for some of Council’s strategic priorities. That being said, the responses also identify opportunities for improvement.” 2015 Annual Report 45 | P a g e