Tax relief draft needs work - Region of Queens

“The Region of Queens has argued from the very beginning of the implementation of the provincial cap program that the legislation does not reflect the result that is intended,” said Mayor John Leefe. “The fact is that the current capping formula does not only not help low income people, in fact it can penalize them.”

A committee created the tax relief policy in 2007.

It will tackle the issue of low or fixed income homeowners having to pay rising property taxes due to rising assessments.

The UNSM has agreed to approach the provincial government with a proposal that would ensure every municipality has an income-based cap.

A letter was sent asking municipalities to comment on a draft of the property tax relief policy.

“The Region of Queens has agreed and strongly endorses,” that there should be a low-income province wide tax relief policy to assist low-income homeowners.

The Region of Queens provided such a program prior to the introduction of the cap and still provides such a program, added Mayor Leefe.

Under the current policy, a household with a proven income of $18,000 or less will receive an exemption of $200.

Councillors also agree there should be a maximum annual property tax relief of $500, he stated.

Thirdly, the Region of Queens agrees the maximum family income to be eligible for property tax relief should be set at $20,000, he continued.

The UNSM asked if they agreed there should be a minimum tax paid by all property owners at $250 “and we are opposed,” said Mayor Leefe.