It’s Property Tax season and homeowners in the City of Kamloops will be getting their tax notices in the mail this week, if they have not already.

The City’s Revenue and Tax Manager Cara Dawson says people who have signed up for email billing, should have already received their tax notice.

Dawson says the average property assessment went up 13 per cent in Kamloops, noting it relates to a roughly 6 per cent property tax increase.

“Although your property may have gone up the average amount, you are not the average house value which is a little over $700,000 this year, or your assessment has gone up more or less than the averaged assessed value, which would make your property taxes play out a little differently.”

Additionally, Dawson says people who live in their principal residence, should also apply for the Homeowner Grant by the deadline, to reduce their tax bill.

“Several years ago the city used to take those applications, but we no longer do that for the last couple of years, that is administered by the BC Government, so you have to apply through their website or call 1-888-355-2700. If you do require in-person service, there is the option to go to Service BC here in town.”

Property taxes and Home Owner Grant applications are due on July 4, with a 10 per cent late fee going into effect on July 5.

Dawson says there are a couple of places to pay in person, including at City Hall from 8:30 am until 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday.

“A new addition this year is we are open extended hours here at City Hall for the last week of tax time, so that last week of June, June 26 through June 30, and then on the due date itself July 4. City Hall will be closed for the Statutory Holiday on July 3.”

The extended hours will see City Hall open until 6 p.m. during those set days.

Additionally, Dawson says the Tournament Capital Centre will be open for in-person payments Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m.

“If you are a frequent user of our recreation facility up there (TCC) or if that is more convenient to you for where you are located in town, you can pay there.”

Cheques can be dropped off at one of four drop boxes – at City Hall, the TCC, the North Shore Police Office, and the Westsyde Pool.

Visit the City of Kamloops website for more details on property taxes and Home Owner Grants,