Asks if there is a plan in place to use refunds to lower 2014 tax hit
To the Expositor:
The NEMI Taxpayers’ executive wishes to clarify and provide a more complete summation of information to residents of the Town of Northeastern Manitoulin and the Islands (NEMI) regarding data that has been circulating from our local election candidates. Although we respect every individual and recognize their good intentions, we believe it is equally important to release information that is complete, reflecting the realities of our entire municipality.
- With respect to taxes being charged to the four wards in our municipality (based on a $100,000 MPAC assessment), in actuality, Ward 1 pays $779.08, which represents a difference of $408.39 less than Wards 3 and 4 and a difference of $539.29 less than Ward 2 (Little Current). These are important figures for all taxpayers when considering the overall taxation equity and distribution among wards in NEMI.
- With respect to the average tax rate in NEMI – in actuality, our municipality received a refund from the Ontario Provincial Police in 2014 in the amount of $21,071 and a District Services Board refund in 2014, in the amount of $69,631. With these refunds being credited back to the municipality, totalling over $90,000 (this is equal to a change of 2.3 percent on the overall tax levy), is there a proactive plan in place to help avert the average tax increase of 4.92 percent that our municipality is slated for?
The NEMI Taxpayers Association extends to all candidates the best of luck in the upcoming municipal election. We would also remind all eligible residents to exercise their democratic privilege by voting on October 27!
On behalf of the NEMI Taxpayers’ Executive,
Mark Volpini
Association Chair and Spokesperson
