Share to Kelowna city council began its 2021 budget deliberations Thursday. Council has given initial approval to a tax increase of 4.04 per cent, down from the earlier 4.27. The new figure would be about $85 for the average size detached home. The city says priorities include maintaining essential services and improving transportation and mobility. A city news release said maintaining essential services and renewing existing assets represents the largest capital budget investment for 2021 at $33.4 million. This includes road resurfacing ($4.4 million), renewal of wastewater mains and facilities ($3.7 million), along with numerous park and facility improvements (Knox Mountain Park and City Park, City Hall, Downtown Parkades, Rutland Arena).