Tax multiplier
We need to watch these bandits when they set the 2017 tax multiplier on Tuesday.
They are recommending a hold at 2016 levels with a 2017 proposed study to determine how competitive Penticton is compared to other municipalities. Currently the tax multiplier is set at 1.58 and many of the bandits want to reduce the rate to a 1.54 multiplier
We are currently have the sixth lowest multiplier in the province.
The bandits have transferred around $2 million onto the plates of residential taxpayers over the last number of years. Most residential taxpayers do not understand the implications of reducing the business rate multiplier.
Look at the schedule where the Penticton tax multiplier is compared to all municipalities in the province. Look at the agenda backup pages that are provided to support the setting of the tax multiplier.
The business tax multiplier question must be placed before the electorate at the date of the 2018 Municipal Election. It is up to knowledgeable individuals to fight for a 2018 referendum question.
Ted Wiltse
Penticton