Sponsors: NCLGA Executive
Endorsed by the NCLGA and UBCM Memberships
WHEREAS the provincial government has indicated that it is considering, as part of a liquefied natural gas (LNG) regime for the Province of BC, capping increases of property tax rates for LNG-related industrial properties;
AND WHEREAS the UBCM, with the support of the provincial government, has long held to the following principles, most recently affirmed in the member-endorsed 2008 policy paper, “Financing Local Government: Achieving Fiscal Balance:”
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA urge the provincial government to refrain from considering or implementing a cap on local government's ability to set property tax rates for industrial properties related to the liquefied natural gas industry.
UBCM Comments: The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution calling on the provincial government to refrain from considering or implementing a cap on local government's ability to set property tax rates for industrial properties specifically related to the liquefied natural gas industry.
However, as expressed by the sponsor in the text of the resolution, the authority of local government to set property taxation distribution is a key component of local government in BC -- one that has long been supported by local government and the provincial government alike.