A new report from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business claims commercial property taxpayers aren’t getting a fair shake in Grande Prairie. The CFIB says the city has a tax “gap” rating of 1.61.
While below the provincial average of 1.93, it means business owners pay 1.6 times more than a residential owner with a similar valued assessment. Mayor Bill Given says despite being on the low end of the “gap”, the report may not paint a comprehensive picture.
“This should be a reminder that when we talk about municipal property taxes that a huge variety of factors that determine what the rate is.”
“People really need to ensure they’re well informed before making judgments” he adds.
Grande Prairie sits well behind the highest gap in Alberta, which belongs to Calgary at 4.14. That’s followed by Edmonton, Lethbridge and Medicine Hat. Last fall, the city recommended and passed a 4.1 per cent reduction in property taxes for residents.
You can read the full report here.