Westbank First Nation’s 2025–2026 annual budget was approved by Council on March 31, 2025, following review and recommendation by the Advisory Council, which represents the 11,000+ residents living on WFN lands.
WFN’s property tax rates are set annually based on the approved budget and a maximum increase tied to the Consumer Price Index (CPI). The tax rates and expenditure bylaw are reviewed by the Advisory Council, then approved by WFN Council, and subsequently sent to the First Nations Tax Commission for review and final approval by the Minister.
For 2025, WFN’s average residential property tax is $2,946.42, based on an average assessed home value of $656,525.95. That represents a 9.08% increase over last year, or approximately $168.50 more per household.
“The increase reflects rising costs in key service areas like protective services and community development, where we’ve seen the greatest need,” says Chief Robert Louie. “As our community grows, so does the demand for high-quality services. WFN remains focused on responsible, transparent budgeting that supports a safe, livable, and well-managed community for everyone who lives and does business on WFN lands.”
Preliminary property tax revenues are projected at $21.75 million—an 8.5% increase over 2024. The total assessed value of taxable property on WFN lands rose by 4.41% to $3.75 billion, with $137.54 million (5.24%) attributed to new construction. Market value changes account for a further 0.62%. The number of residential properties increased to 4,989, while the number of businesses remains steady at approximately 550. Based on total property assessment, WFN ranks as the 58th largest of B.C.'s 162 registered municipalities.
Residents on WFN lands also benefit from a range of programs and services, including no-cost access to youth and recreation programs, public amenities like the skatepark and sport courts, and seasonal offerings such as adult/youth golf lessons and Big White shuttle service.
Property tax notices were mailed out on May 9 and May 12, 2025, to account for the possibility of a mail strike. Taxes are due by July 2, 2025, and a 10% statutory penalty will be applied to late payments or unclaimed Home Owner Grants starting July 3, 2025.
For more information on your property tax notice or available Home Owner Grants, visit wfn.ca/taxation or contact the WFN Taxation Department at taxation@wfn.ca or (250) 769-4999.