Ontario Town Faces Financial Crisis: Residents Shocked by Property Tax Increase
Residents of Fauquier-Strickland, a small township in northern Ontario, are facing a massive property tax increase amid a financial crisis. Alan Gosnay and his family, who moved to the town late last year, were shocked to see their taxes rise from $2,300 to $5,600 in just a few months. As a retiree on a fixed income, Gosnay called the increase a huge shock.
Struggling to Make Ends Meet
At a recent community meeting, a township councillor revealed that property taxes could rise another 200% to balance Fauquier-Strickland’s budget. This news left many residents in shock. Gosnay voiced his frustration, saying, “You just can’t do that.”
Following this, Mayor Madeleine Tremblay confirmed that the township faces a $2.5-million deficit. This financial strain stems from over-budget infrastructure projects, including the $1 million upgrade to the municipal water filtration system during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Risk of Service Shutdown
The mayor warned that, without financial help from the province or higher property taxes, the township may need to close services by August 1st. Tremblay also noted that many small towns in Ontario are facing similar struggles due to rising costs and a small tax base.
Seeking Solutions
Mike Savage, a resident who moved from Toronto for a quieter life, remains hopeful that the province will step in. He pointed out the importance of northern Ontario for resource jobs, critical minerals, and defence, and believes the region deserves financial reinforcement.
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Alan Gosnay suggested that amalgamation with Kapuskasing could help broaden the tax base and stabilize the finances of Fauquier-Strickland.
Government Response
In response to the crisis, a spokesperson for Ontario’s municipal affairs and housing minister, Rob Flack, said the ministry is working with the township to address its financial issues. However, many residents are skeptical of a “bailout” without accountability, fearing the province may offer a quick fix without solving the root problems.
Looking Forward
The future of Fauquier-Strickland hangs in the balance as the township faces an uncertain financial future. With rising taxes and the potential loss of vital services, residents are calling on the Ontario government for a solution to prevent the community from sinking further into financial turmoil.
What do you think is the best solution for Fauquier-Strickland’s financial woes? Should the Ontario government intervene or should the town explore other options?
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More…
- https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/sudbury/fauquier-strickland-financial-crisis-1.7582236
- https://www.msn.com/en-ca/news/canada/they-moved-to-northern-ontario-for-a-better-life-now-their-town-is-in-financial-crisis/ar-AA1IqtOf?ocid=finance-verthp-feeds
- https://www.ctvnews.ca/northern-ontario/article/facing-300-tax-hike-northern-ont-community-to-dissolve-aug-1
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