I would like to commend city council for another successful bait and switch regarding property taxes.
Last year, budget called for a 1.5% increase. In May, bumped up to 2.5% This year, .4% increase at budget time. Come May, another shortfall, moving the increase to .9%
Not for me though. A real estate wizard in city hall, moves up the value of my palatial estate. Hmmm ... curious move in a flat real estate market. So contrary to Mayor Heron spouting off about a .9% increase, my actual increase, not including school taxes, 2.92%.
Councillor Brodhead boasted that his big idea for the Electrical Franchise Fee would save money for those paying property taxes. Add that fee to my property tax and I now pay 4.16% more to the city, this year.
My 4.16% increase close to the top in this province. When the Zoocasa report comes out in October, St. Albert will be the highest taxed city in Alberta, if you factor in franchise fees. Yes, NUMBER ONE, something this current council can brag about.
W. Maddox, St. Albert
