Non-resident Task Force Report Released

Voluntary Planning's Task Force on Non-resident Land Ownership released its final report today with the inclusion of an additional recommendation dealing with assessment and municipal taxation.

"After releasing the interim report we heard from people who were disappointed that the task force had not adequately addressed one of their most pressing concerns," said Alasdair Sinclair, acting chair of the task force. "Upon further reflection the task force now believes a stronger position, on their part, is warranted regarding assessment and municipal taxation."

The added recommendation states: Our provincial and municipal governments should conduct an immediate review of the assessment and municipal taxation systems to address aspects of inequity and purpose.

"This is an important issue for many Nova Scotians and particularly for those in coastal regions of our province with strong property demand," said Mr. Sinclair. "In these areas, assessments are rising rapidly, but municipal tax rates do not always fall to compensate. The result may be that some are taxed inequitably. It also appears to be placing some homestead property owners in difficult financial circumstances."

The task force included the recommendation to government in its final report because it believes solutions are available. The fact that non-resident land owners frequently receive undue criticism for this problem was also an important factor in including the recommendation.

Much of the report is the same as the interim report released in September. The task force recommends that the government not pursue an extraordinary tax or limitations on the amount of land that can be owned by non-resident land owners.

It also calls for better tracking and reporting on land ownership, an arm's-length agency for greater emphasis and co- ordination when it comes to land-use planning, and the development of a coastal access strategy to guarantee the greatest possible benefit from this incredible natural asset.

The 21 recommendations are based on information received from public meetings, written submissions, research from across Canada and several other countries, and input of the task force members.

Copies of the report are available on the Voluntary Planning Web site at www.gov.ns.ca/vp ; in person at Suite 600, 1690 Hollis St. Halifax; or by calling 902-424-5682. Copies will also be sent directly to those who made submissions.

NOTE TO EDITORS: Alasdair Sinclair, Pam Harrison, task force member, and Leo Dillman, CEO of Voluntary Planning, will be available for media interviews from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Voluntary Planning Office, 1690 Hollis St., Halifax. To arrange an interview drop by the office or call 902-424-8650.