Corner Brook council looking at tax breaks for some landlords during transition to private garbage collection

A tax break of $125.00 per unit per year for three years was recommended. In the end, council approved an amendment to opt for a two year tax break for landlords instead of three. The matter is due to be voted on during the next public meeting.

Monday’s agenda for the public council meeting in Corner Brook included recommendations for a temporary tax adjustment for residential properties containing 6-10 living units that share a common driveway. Recent changes removed City garbage collection services as an option for these buildings. To support landlords and tenants during the transition to private garbage collection, a tax break of $125.00 per unit per year for three years was recommended. Councillor Donna Luther asked  the Assistant Director of Engineering, Development and Operational Services, Aaron O’Brien, for an explanation, given the $150 waste management levy on all residential property owners. O’Brien explained the rationale being garbage can’t be collected there due to the sheer size of the new garbage bins. 

The tax break would result in an estimated $13,000.00 loss in revenue each year.. Mayor Linda Chaisson asked the Director of Finance, Robert George, where the money would come from to cover this. He says it’s not a budgeted item and would require budget transfer from a different line to cover the shortfall. 

In the end, council approved an amendment to opt for a two year tax break for landlords instead of three. The matter is due to be voted on during the next public meeting.