Councillor Ruth-Ann Nieuwesteeg thinks that a tax deferral system would provide a better framework for supporting seniors than the tax rebate program for multiple reasons. Pictured: Councillor Ruth-Ann Nieuwesteeg. Photo Credit: City of Niagara Falls.
With the cost of living skyrocketing, taxes going up and a limited availability of support, there is a growing demand to provide relief for low-income seniors, as well as those who have disabilities. In pursuit of this goal, the City of Niagara Falls offers a specialized tax rebate program, which delivers $80 to those who qualify under the demographics above. There is a growing belief, however, that this initiative is inadequate.
The Niagara Falls council requested that city staff prepare a report which would consider the possibility of creating a property tax deferral program as an alternative to the property tax rebate. The staff concluded that property tax rebate provisions are accounted for in the Municipal Act, and therefore changes must take place through the Niagara Region. They also said that consultations regarding this topic are happening with the Region continuously and recommended proceeding with the current rebate program for the foreseeable future.
Ruth-Ann Nieuwesteeg, who currently serves as a Niagara Falls city councillor, has refused to accept the status quo.
“Eighty dollars is such a minuscule amount, especially when we spend $300,000 cleaning up encampments,” Nieuwesteeg told The Niagara Independent. “And when you factor in the application fee, it is not even an economic win for those who apply.”
Nieuwesteeg thinks that a tax deferral system would provide a better framework for supporting seniors than the tax rebate program for multiple reasons.
“This path would allow seniors who are most in need, to receive a greater financial break,” Nieuwestegg explained. “At the same time, it is not a hand-out, nor is it universal in nature, as we would be specifically assisting those who truly need the extra help, and the City would still receive the funds in the long-run.”
In addition to these stated benefits, Nieuwesteeg also argues that a tax deferral system would tangibly support seniors staying in their homes.
“In many instances, it is much better for our seniors to continue enjoying their residence,” she said. “While there is often a push to down-size, this option is not as seamless or cost-effective as many believe. There are seniors who love their homes, and would like to stay, but they are struggling to make it through these unprecedented financial times, through no fault of their own, which no one could have predicted.”
“Our hearts go out to them, they have been great corporate citizens for many decades, and they deserve our support.”
Nieuwesteeg is optimistic that her arguments have been gaining traction within council chambers, as her colleagues are also identifying the need for enhanced solutions.
“I am very pleased that other members of council are supportive of the need to consider a better way forward,” Nieuwestegg added.
A motion that was introduced by Nieuwesteeg to defer a decision on the matter until the fall, in order to allow city staff to study contingency options, was passed unanimously by city council.
Regional staff have been adamant that a new approach must receive the approval of all twelve Niagara municipalities. If Niagara Falls ultimately reaches a consensus on the way forward, but is stonewalled because other municipalities cannot agree, this matter has the potential to reawaken a broader debate about the layers of bureaucracy that come with having a regional government.
Nick Redekop completed his Honours Bachelor of Arts Degree in Labour Studies at Brock University. He has previously served in municipal and federal politics. In his free time, Nick enjoys following sports, taking part in outdoor activities, and reading biographies. Nick resides in Niagara Falls
