Scugog makes tax changes to help residents

Scugog makes tax changes to help residents

by The Standard News Inc. | April 2nd, 2020 Edition https://thestandardnewspaper.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Tax-Help-Apr-2nd-2020.mp3

DAN CEARNS The Standard

SCUGOG: With COVID-19 causing financial uncertainty for residents across Ontario, the Township of Scugog has made some changes regarding residential taxes. At a meeting on Monday, March 23rd, councillors voted in favour of giving residents a two-month grace period on their April tax installment, with no penalty and interest charged for May or June. The tax installment originally scheduled to be paid by June 24th has also been postponed to July 24th. Treasurer Dianne Valentim has been given the ability to waive service fees up to $50. Scugog staff have been notified to make one other change. “Staff will not begin new collection enforcement, such as bailiff actions or tax sales, for the periods May 1st, 2020 to November 1st, 2020,” read Ms. Valentim’s report. In her report, Ms. Valentim explained the reasoning behind the changes. “The municipality, like all other municipalities in Canada, is dealing with the financial realities of the COVID-19 virus on the ability of taxpayers to pay property tax. The municipality is limited in the type of relief that may be provided,” she wrote. Mayor Bobbie Drew also made a statement regarding these decisions. “This is a difficult time for families on many levels, and we want to support our community by providing some financial relief to our residents and businesses as we navigate our way through these trying times. This community is amazing and we will continue to support each other through this pandemic crisis,” she said, in a press release.