Calgary Chamber disappointed in City Council’s decision on property tax

The following statement on municipal property tax is attributable to Deborah Yedlin, President and CEO of the Calgary Chamber of Commerce:

Calgary, February 14, 2023 – “As the voice of business, we are disheartened by City Council’s decision to maintain the non-residential to residential tax ratio at 52 to 48 and are concerned that the tax ratio is projected to further increase to 4.26 to 1 in 2023. We are working to ensure Calgary is competitive, entrepreneurial and ripe with opportunity, however this decision runs counter to our identity of being ‘open for business’.

“We have been actively working with our business community and City Council on the importance of business viability and success in Calgary, knowing a thriving business community leads to a vibrant Calgary community more broadly. Businesses are the employers of many Calgarians, and we need a strong business environment to continue having a strong economy.

“We view the decision to maintain the status quo as a decision in favour of a further imbalance, as the ratio is projected to continue climbing. It leaves Calgary among the highest cost cities compared to nearby and other major Canadian cities, hampering business success. Rising costs, inflation and debt continue to impede business, and unequitable property taxes only add to this.

“As the Chamber, we will continue to advocate for a two per cent property tax shift in the coming years, as the City’s failure to adjust the property tax ratio hinders investment outlook for businesses and the city. The Chamber remains committed to advocating and advancing property tax measures that support long-term growth for businesses.”

ABOUT THE CALGARY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Calgary Chamber exists to help businesses thrive. As the convenor and catalyst for a vibrant, inclusive, and prosperous business community, the Chamber works to build strength and resilience among its members and position Calgary as a magnet for talent, diversification, and opportunity. As an independent, non-profit, non-partisan organization, we build on our 131-year history to serve and advocate for businesses of all sizes, in all sectors, and across the city.

Media opportunities

For media inquiries, please contact Shannon Hazlett, Senior Public Relations Advisor, at media@calgarychamber.com.