Veteran organizations may soon see some tax relief from the City of Richmond.
Councillor Linda McPhail is asking city staff to research options to assist the Army Navy Air Force 284 in Steveston and Royal Canadian Legion Richmond Branch 291 on Bridgeport, with tax relief.
ANAF and the Legion have municipal tax bills of about $64,000 and $22,000, respectively.
According to ANAF staff, a loan to cover the property tax bill last year saved the club from shutting its doors. The club runs a bar and lounge and is undergoing a business management review to assist in operating profitably.
"I'm hoping we have a dialogue …and see what are the options for council," said McPhail, who tabled a council motion on Dec. 2 at a finance committee meeting for staff to "examine all available options to mitigate the property tax impact on veteran associations for the 2016 tax year."
Because of filing deadlines, 2016 is the earliest help can arrive.
McPhail noted neighbouring municipalities, such as Surrey, give tax breaks.
The city has a few options available such as a permissive exemption, grant, loan, or tax deferral.
Tax exemptions are not uncommon for certain groups. In 2014 the City of Richmond waived $421,789 of municipal taxes to religious organizations.
