Halifax staff propose 5.9% property tax increase

[Keith P.]

https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scot...per-cent-property-tax-increase-1.6256527

Halifax staff are proposing a 5.9 per cent property tax increase for the next fiscal year, which will be debated by regional council on Nov. 23.

The increase is made up of 2.9 per cent to cover increased service costs, and 3.0 per cent for a proposed Climate Action Tax.

The increase would raise an additional $400 million annually for municipal coffers. This translates into an annual tax increase of $121 on the average Halifax home, assessed at $262,700. Commercial taxes would rise by an average of $2,553, based on an average business assessment of $1.46 million.

According to a fiscal statement issued Friday, inflation is having a "considerable" effect on municipal finances, with a 40 per cent increase in fuel costs, a $2.9 million increase in the RCMP collective agreement, and $4 million in other contractual increases.

Money is also needed to redevelop sites such as the Halifax Forum, the Windsor Street Exchange and the Mill Cove Ferry, plus improving 13 "multi-modal transportation corridors" around the municipality.

The Climate Action Tax would fund the purchase of 60 electric transit buses, and refurbish an electric bus garage. It would also help municipal buildings be more energy efficient.

HRM Council needs to be sent to rehab en masse to kick their spending addiction.