Richmond County low-income homeowners may see a municipal property tax cut in response to their concerns. The region lacks the initiative, which is similar to other Nova Scotia communities.
Richmond Property Tax Rebate
Due to the lack of a rebate program, the council requested a staff study to investigate its viability. After Coun. Brent Sampson raised concerns about homeowners’ worries about rising property prices and rising grocery and heating bills, the decision was made.
Sampson highlighted the continued struggles of community members due to inflation and the expense of life. He suggested using existing resources to address these concerns as a municipality representative.
Sampson wants a Richmond property tax rebate in a provincial one but at a lower rate. Low-income seniors receive a 50% municipal tax credit, limited to $800, from the government. Sampson expressed worry for those who may not qualify for the provincial program and stressed the goal to include more financially struggling citizens.
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Insights into Richmond Property Tax Rebate Program
According to Sampson, a staff report on a Richmond County refund is expected within two months, just before counselors begin budget deliberations.
Property tax refunds on Cape Breton Island vary. Cape Breton Regional, Victoria County, Port Hawkesbury, and Inverness County have demographic-specific rebate programs.
For households earning less than $35,000, Cape Breton Regional Municipality and Victoria County give $300 rebates. Residential property owners earning less than $23,000 receive a $200 reimbursement from Port Hawkesbury. Inverness County offers a $150 refund for households under $25,000.
Leanne MacEachen, Victoria County’s Chief Administrative Officer, said the rebate scheme cost $22,000 last year, up from $20,000. Richmond Property Tax Rebate is committed to solving its people’s particular financial concerns through rebate program discussions and implementation.