Sharper eyes than mine have noted that in the Vancouver Sun survey of council candidates, two of the seven Non-Partisan Association candidates who answered the question said they did not support shifting more of the business share of tax to residential.
Michael Geller, a development consultant and expert on how real-estate economics work, is not in favour, nor is Sean Bickerton, a new NPA candidate who lives in Tinseltown.
Michael, who has steadfastly put out thoughtful positions on the issues even when they are not in line with party policy, had this to say on the issue:
The question of the fair determination and allocation of property taxes is much more complex than can be answered yes or no. For instance, I personally think we should be considering revisions to the residential classification to distinguish between low density single family housing and higher density housing which places less demands on city services.
similarly, by always taxing a property based on its highest and best use, regardless of its actual use, can also be very unfair. One of the reasons we are losing gas stations in the city is because the property taxes are often based on the value of the site as a 20 storey apartment building, not as a gas station.
Now I definitely do not support the suggestion made by one candidate that perhaps the taxes should be based on how well a business is doing. But I am the first to admit that over time, there is room for more adjustment to create a more equitable system. I am the first to admit I need to learn more about this issue.
My yes or no answer to the question was in large part a reflection of my concern for the increase in residential property taxes, which does in fact affect owners and renters, especially for those homeowners under 55 who cannot take advantage of the Provincial Government’s deferral program. But that’s another story!