Re: Council weighs in on spec tax (News Friday, May 18)
I am puzzled as to why our local politicians and some residents seem more concerned with advocating for part time residents, than considering those of us who live here full time. Yes, part time resident owners do pay property tax, and, unlike absentee owners sales tax on what they consume for the time they are here. That would not likely be comparable, though, to a full time resident who also pays income tax to this province as well as the required provincial sales tax on services year round and the purchase of goods supporting local businesses. It seems to me that as absentee and part time property owners replace permanent residents, our tax base shrinks. Where should the onus of this belong?
Maybe it is time, as in other jurisdictions, all levels of government look at balancing an increase of property tax with a reduction in income taxes. This would seem the fairest way for all property owners to contribute to the essential services we all expect and demand year round, not just on a part time basis.
Janice Davis
Oak Bay