Low-income homeowners in Richmond County may be eligible for a reduction in their municipal property taxes in the upcoming year, mirroring a program already available to property owners in other Nova Scotia municipalities.
As of now, Richmond County lacks a rebate initiative, prompting the council to request a staff report on the proposal.
This decision followed concerns expressed by Coun. Brent Sampson, who highlighted residents’ increasing apprehensions about escalating property values, as well as the rising costs of groceries and home heating.
Sampson highlighted the enduring challenges of inflation and the cost of living, emphasizing the persistent hardships faced by certain individuals.
As a municipality, he urged the exploration of available tools to offer assistance in addressing these issues.
Sampson Urges Tax Rebate in Richmond County
Sampson advocated for Richmond County to implement a similar rebate program, albeit potentially at a reduced rate compared to the provincial offering.
The province currently extends a 50 percent rebate on municipal taxes, capped at $800, exclusively to qualifying low-income seniors.
Expressing concern for individuals who may not qualify for the existing provincial program, he emphasized the intention to encompass a broader spectrum of residents facing financial challenges.
A staff report outlining the mechanics of a potential rebate in Richmond County is anticipated to be prepared within the next couple of months, coinciding with the commencement of budget discussions among counselors, as stated by Sampson.
Rebates Available in Different Municipalities
All other municipalities on Cape Breton Island have already implemented a rebate system.
The Cape Breton Regional Municipality provides a $300 rebate for households with an income below $35,000.
Similarly, Victoria County offers a $300 rebate for households earning less than $35,000. In the Town of Port Hawkesbury, residential property owners with an income below $23,000 are eligible for a $200 rebate.
Inverness County extends a $150 rebate for households with incomes under $25,000.
Victoria County’s Chief Administrative Officer, Leanne MacEachen, reported that the rebate program incurred a cost of approximately $22,000 last year, showing a slight increase from the $20,000 expenditure in the preceding year.