Politics
Ballot Measure C on Community Services Levy and Its Effects on West End Residents
The measure would direct new revenue to local health clinics, youth programs and elder care services used by West End households.
How we reported this
Voters in West End will decide Ballot Measure C on 3 November, a proposal to impose a 0.25 percent sales tax increase that would generate dedicated funds for community services including health clinics, after-school programs and senior support.
The measure appears on the ballot as demand for these services has risen, according to the West End City Council 2025 annual report, which recorded a 14 percent increase in residents seeking assistance at city-funded facilities over the prior two years.
Projected allocation and resident costs
Under the plan, revenue would flow to the existing network of five community health centres and the West End Youth Services Office, which together served 8,400 individuals in 2025. Property owners would not face a direct property tax change, yet shoppers would pay the added levy on most retail purchases beginning 1 January 2027 if the measure passes.
City budget documents released in May project the levy would raise 4.5 million dollars in its first full year, with 55 percent earmarked for expanded clinic hours and 30 percent for youth and family counselling. The remaining share would support home-delivered meals for seniors at the West End Senior Centre on Maple Street.
Next steps for implementation
If approved, the West End Finance Department would begin collecting the tax on 1 January 2027 and transfer funds quarterly to the Community Services Board, which would publish annual spending reports. The board would also hold two public hearings each year to review service outcomes before any adjustments to allocations.
Residents can review the full text of Ballot Measure C and the accompanying fiscal analysis on the city elections website or at the West End Public Library reference desk until 15 October.