The B.C. Legislature has again resumed session and this week will also see the introduction of the next B.C. budget. While on the topic of budget related discussion, last week the Minister of Finance announced new tax relief measures for purchasers of new homes. The B.C. new housing tax rebate will, as of April 1, 2012, apply to new home purchases up to a maximum value of $850,000. This increase in the threshold means that close to 90 per cent of newly built homes will now be eligible for a provincial HST rebate of up to $42,500. It is important to note that this rebate only applies to new home purchases as pre-existing home were not subject to HST. For further information do not hesitate to contact my office.
On a different theme the call for nominations has gone out for the Order of British Columbia. The Order of B.C. recognizes citizens who have served with the greatest distinction and excelled in any field of endeavour that benefits the people of British Columbia. The Order of B.C. represents the highest form of recognition the province can extend to its citizens. The deadline for nomination is Mach 10, 2012 and further information can be found online at www.orderofbc.gov.bc.ca
Last week another phase of affordable housing for senior’s opened in the community of Naramata. This was the second phase of affordable housing in the community and came at a cost to taxpayer’s of $ 720,000 and will be managed by the non profit Christopher Housing Society. I mention this project in large part because it very likely would not have occurred were it not for the first phase. Phase one was a very creative effort that ultimately was the result of considerable efforts being undertaken by a volunteer group of citizens who shared a vision to create affordable seniors housing in Naramata. Although this group of volunteers was not involved in the second phase I believe it is important to recognize their contribution towards this important project.
Finally this week I would like to congratulate the grade eight students at Holy Cross elementary school who achieved the highest score in Canada on the recent Canadian Citizenship Challenge. This is a great result by Penticton students and I would like to recognize teacher Michele Cumberland for this achievement.
In next week’s report I will discuss the B.C. budget at length and also a reminder that the BC budget information will be available online at the BC Government website www2.gov.bc.ca
Bill Barisoff is the MLA for Penticton.