BATTLEFORD — According to a letter received by the Town of Battleford at their Dec. 11 council meeting, some residents feel that land taxes have gone up far too much in the last 10 years.
Christine and Jeff Gibson's letter, dated Dec. 5, though noting there are wonderful qualities about Battleford, also says there are concerns about high property tax rates in town.
"We have been residents of this community since 2014 and have observed a significant increase in property taxes the past few years ... the rising tax burden has become a matter of concern for many homeowners in our neighbourhood," their letter reads.
"In the time since we moved into our neighbourhood, the property taxes have risen by approximately 35 per cent," the letter reads, noting that while property values have increased, the rate at which taxes have also grown appears disproportionate and unsustainable.
They also noted that though they understand the importance of maintaining essential services, improving infrastructure, and investing in the town requires funding, but feel a balance must be found.
"I kindly request that the town council reconsider the property tax rates and explore measures to make homeownership more affordable for long-standing residents like us and those who may wish to settle in our community."
Mayor Ames Leslie offered some comments and clarifications on taxation in Battleford.
"I definitely don't want to discount the Gibsons' concern, because I think the cost of living has gone up significantly for many people," he said, noting that he had administration dig into some facts regarding taxation.
"The Town of Battleford is arguably second, third-largest town ... in the province of Sask. and as of right now we have the seventh lowest taxation of all towns in the province," Mayor Leslie said.
Our present taxation level is 8.3, that's the Mill Rate. In 2016, that same mill rate was 10.46 ... so its almost a two per cent decrease in our mill rate since that time."
"So we've been making less money per year since 2016, even though with our increases," referencing the deprecation of houses in regards to reassessment value.
He also noted that the education portion of the tax — that the town has no control over and is controlled by the Saskatchewan Government — has been increasing.
Councillor Judy Pruden implored them to come in and pay their taxes in January so they could take advantage of six per cent discount on the municipal portion of their taxes.
She also mentioned that this year's budget is across the board for all residents, not based on their home assessment value.
"This year everybody's going to pay the same 50 cents a day or whatever ... and I do feel for them if it's become a hardship."
In comments to the media, Mayor Leslie noted that he doesn't think they could ever lower taxes.
"I wouldn't think even in 2025 it would be a consideration. Us increasing base taxes is a form of addressing that," he said.
"It's one tactic we can use to keep fairness in taxation in the community."
