Whereas the Rural and Northern Homeowner Benefit has historically provided important property tax relief to residents in rural and northern communities across British Columbia, including Campbell River; And whereas rural and northern communities often face higher costs of living, limited access to services, and economic challenges compared to larger urban centres; And whereas the elimination of the Rural and Northern Homeowner Benefit in the Provinces 2026 Budget will result in increased property tax burdens for eligible homeowners in 2027 and beyond, impacting affordability and financial stability; And whereas local governments do not have the fiscal capacity to offset provincially imposed changes to property taxpayer relief without affecting service delivery or increasing local taxation: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM request that the Province of British Columbia reinstate the Rural and Northern Homeowner Benefit beginning in the next provincial budget cycle; And be it further resolved that the Province engage with local governments and affected communities to assess the financial and social impacts of its elimination and ensure equitable tax relief is provided to rural and northern residents.
