During the Finance and Responsible Governance Committee meeting on February 7, members Mayor Alex Nuttall, Deputy Mayor Robert Thomson, Cllr. Ann-Marie Kungl, and Chair Cllr Gary Harvey deliberated and voted on several issues.

The committee voted against a motion by Ward 1 Councillor Clare Riepma for a study on heritage property tax relief. The study, had it been approved, would have incurred costs between $50,000 and $100,000 that were based on similar programs by neighbouring municipalities, and allowed for a staff review with the possibility of inclusion in the 2025 budget. “We're losing a lot of historical homes, because there is an added responsibility of having a heritage property,” said Ward 4 Councillor Amy Courser in support of the motion, a non-member of the committee.

In another decision, the committee agreed to seek public input on restricting fireworks in residential areas. This move was prompted by a notable increase in fireworks complaints, especially during Diwali. However some members raised concerns about unintentionally targeting the Hindu community and previous failures to enforce similar restrictions in Brampton. 

The councillors also approved a motion to increase the municipal accommodation tax (MAT) from four per cent to six per cent to fund the future expansion of the Sadlon Arena. It was approved unanimously. 

Furthermore, the committee turned down a proposal to explore funding opportunities for community environmental groups. This proposal aimed to match the financial support provided to arts and sports organizations, each of which receives about $300,000. The vote on this matter was split along ideological lines with Mayor Nuttall, Deputy Mayor Thomson, and Chair Cllr Harvey opposing the motion, while Cllr Kungl was in favor.

Mayor Alex Nuttall emphasized his ambition to establish a Conservation Trust by the end of the year focusing on preserving the ecological heritage of the area. He outlined plans for developing trail systems and plantings to ensure the protection of these natural spaces.

Cllr Kungl highlighted the distinction between this initiative and the proposal for environmental group funding. Kungl pointed out the discrepancy in the funding process for environmental groups compared to arts and sports organizations noting the successful allocation of grants in those areas and the need for a similar approach for environmental initiatives. She said it would align with the City’s strategic priorities around certain aspects tied to environment and climate action.” 

The two motions, related to fireworks and the municipal accommodation tax, approved by the committee, will proceed to the General Committee and City Council for final approval.

0:00:00 Intro
0:05:00 Meeting intro
0:7:51 Heritage Property Tax Relief
00:38:00 Fireworks Public Consultation
01:10:00 Environmental Group Funding
01:37:00 Sadlon Arena expansion Tax increase