Overdose crisis could hike Vancouver property taxes

Vancouver city council is considering charging homeowners an extra 0.5 per cent in property tax to pay for more resources to combat the fentanyl overdose crisis.

According to a report from city staff the tax would raise about $3.5 million next year for the city’s contingency fund, which is needed to give staff more flexibility to respond to the public health emergency.

While the report says it is unclear if the fentanyl crisis has peaked or if it will worsen, the skyrocketing number of overdoses has already increased workload and stress for front-line staff and first responders.

It recommends the money go for additional training for those workers, as well as enhanced mental health support and increased staff to help with overdose management at shelters and outreach centres.

The report also proposes a new community policing centre in Strathcona, a new medical unit for the Downtown Eastside, additional shelter space, a youth education program and a treatment strategy.

City council is hearing from speakers today and will vote on the 2017 budget next Tuesday.