Vancouver council OKs tax increases and new taxes to close $43M deficit and pay for homeless ‘bridge shelter’

Business and occupation tax to fund the bridge shelter comes at the dismay of Clark County Matters, which seeks to enforce a camping ban.

People parking, buying movie tickets and shopping in Vancouver can expect to pay more starting next year.

To close a $43 million deficit in the 2025-26 budget, the Vancouver City Council on Monday passed ordinances for two tax increases and five new taxes, most notably a 0.1 percent business and occupation tax on retailers to pay for a 150-bed homeless shelter.

The council also approved doubling special license fees required for certain businesses, including tow truck operators and pawnbrokers.

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