CRFA action softens the proposed tax increase in Halifax

(May 28/10) Following CRFA action, the proposed tax increase on businesses in Halifax’s regional budget reduced from 13.9 to 10 cents per $100 of assessment – saving the average Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) foodservice operation approximately $320.

Although the general business tax rate has increased, 57 per cent of restaurants and 87 per cent of lounges and other businesses will see a lower overall municipal tax burden.  This results from the final elimination of the Business Occupancy Tax and an overall 7.7 per cent fall in the assessment value of foodservice establishments in HRM.   On average, residential taxpayers will have an overall tax burden increase of 1.6 per cent.

Last week, CRFA launched a Call to Action asking foodservice operators to urge Mayor Kelly and Councillors to not raise taxes on small businesses. We would like to thank all operators that participated in this effort, giving much needed support to those Councillors opposed to the tax hike. 

CRFA would also like to single out Councillor Gloria McCluskey for her efforts to support the foodservice industry’s position.  Her action led to a Council debate on the impact of the proposed budget on foodservice operators and the larger business community.  Click here to see Councillor McCluskey’s note commending CRFA for its action.
 
CRFA continues to encourage Council to regain control of its spending without raising taxes, and implement a budget that is equitable and fair to residents and business owners, fosters growth and creates a more vibrant community. 

We need your support to keep representing the foodservice industry’s interests to all levels of government.

For more information, contact Luc Erjavec at 902-425-0061 or luc@crfa.ca.

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