Mayor Mat Siscoe will present a motion next week to reduce future property tax increases
The mayor of St. Catharines is looking to mitigate property taxes.
In response to concerns from residents, Mat Siscoe will present a motion at Monday's council meeting to look at ways to reduce taxes.
The motion suggests using savings from hiring delays towards a reserve fund that will be used to reduce future tax increases.
It also proposes supporting programs like the Older Adults Tax Increase deferral program.
"I have heard directly from residents, as have other members of City Council, regarding their frustration about the property tax increases at both the City and the Region," Siscoe said. "We cannot avoid the reality of high inflation rates and the cost of recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic challenges they have created for the City, but I believe everyone recognizes the need to support residents. My motion provides funding for a real taxpayer relief program that has been very positively received by members of the Budget Committee and the community at large."
This year, property taxes will increase by about $400 for a home valued at $255,000.
City staff are currently working on the deferral program, which is expected to allow low-income seniors to 'lock in' the City portion of the taxes, thus deferring payment on the added portions until the home is sold.
The program will be presented at a future budget meeting.
Council will also vote on a reconsideration of the city's budget.
NRP Officers Do Remarkable Work: Chief
Vehicle Break in Suspect Caught
Catholic School Planned for Niagara Falls
Toronto Secures WNBA Franchise
Raise Anticipated for Niagara Child Care Workers
$36.7-Mill to Expand Peach King Centre
Welland School Expands with Provincial Help
Severe Thunderstorm Watch for Niagara