Title
Senior's Property Tax Assistance Options
Proposed Motion
That Council directs administration to proceed with promoting the Seniors Property Tax Deferral Program available through the province.
Body
Administration Recommendation
Administration supports the proposed motion.
Purpose
To explore available property tax assistance options for low income seniors in Parkland County.
Summary
On September 9th 2026, Council directed administration to bring options for a seniors property tax assistance program within Parkland County. Administration reviewed the current provincial program and also completed a scan of other municipalities in the Province to determine options. The options identified include:
Option 1 - Status Quo, continue advertising and notifying resident of the Alberta Seniors Property Tax Deferral Program
Option 2 - Increased resident education and support for the Alberta Seniors Property Tax Deferral Program. Parkland County staff could assist residents through the application process.
Estimated budget implications - No budget implications
Additional Requirements - No additional requirements
Option 3 - Implementation of a Parkland County Seniors Property Tax Rebate ProgramDevelop a rebate program to support low-income seniors, modeled after programs in St. Albert and Strathcona County, which provide rebates of $200 and $250 respectively.
Estimated budget implications - ($75,000)
Additional Requirements - Administration to draft a policy outlining the requirements of the program for Council review and approval
Administration recommends Option 2 as it provides significant assistance to seniors and has minimal administrative impact and no budget impact.
Historical Information:
On September 9th Council received a report with tax assistance options available in other municipalities and asked administration to bring back a report of options available for Parkland County residents.
Strategic Plan/Policy/Legal/Staff Implications:
Financial Impact:
Cost:
Source of Funding:
Other: