A study examining potential boundary changes between Duncan and North Cowichan found limited financial impacts for both municipalities.
“Over the years, Duncan residents told the City they wanted more information about boundary realignment as an alternative to amalgamation,” said a statement from the city. “In the 2014 opinion referendum, 54 per cent of Duncan voters supported studying it. A 2019 citizen survey found that many residents were undecided and wanted more information. The study was designed to provide that information.”
Consultants looked at two possible boundary configurations as part of the study. The analysis found little overall change to municipal operating, utility or capital costs under either scenario.
The financial impact would not be the same for all property owners. Those in areas that could become part of Duncan would likely face higher taxes because Duncan’s tax rates are higher than North Cowichan’s.
The study also considered factors that cannot be easily assigned a dollar value, including community identity, sense of place and the clarity of municipal boundaries.
“The financial analysis is one factor, but it is rarely the only one,” said Sherry Hurst, the independent consultant who led the study. “Decisions about local government boundaries are often based on representation, local voice, and identity. Residents are best placed to weigh those questions.”
Hurst presented the study to Duncan council Monday. Council has not made any decisions about boundary changes and the study does not initiate a change to municipal boundaries.
The City of Duncan said the study was undertaken after residents asked for more information about boundary realignment as an alternative to amalgamation.
“Residents asked for information, and this study provides it,” said Peter de Verteuil, Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Duncan. “The purpose was simply to provide information to residents on the concept of Boundary Realignment as an alternative to amalgamation. There are no planned next steps other than hearing what residents think. We will share a summary of that feedback with the newly elected City Council later this year.”
Neighbouring municipality North Cowichan opposed the study.
READ MORE: North Cowichan opposes boundary realignment study by City of Duncan : My Cowichan Valley Now
Residents can review the report and provide feedback through the City of Duncan’s Big Conversations website until Nov. 30.
