Some taxes and fees are going up in the town of Conception Bay South in 2023.
The town’s $39.7 million budget includes a slight increase to the residential mil rate, which will now sit at 7.30, while the commercial mil rate remains steady at 11.5.
Water and sewer taxes are also going up. Both the residential and commercial rates are increasing by $20 per unit, amounting to $635 for residential, and $960 for commercial. The school rate is going up by $5 per student—which is covered by the school district. As well, if water meters exist in commercial properties that will be the method used for taxation.
Daycares in the town will see an added fee in 2023. Previously, they were exempt from the business tax but now they will pay the minimum rate of $350 per year to ensure an “equitable taxing structure” for the business community.
For the fourth year, numerous residential permit fees are being waived, except for the fees for new home construction which will be reinstated.
Other items in the budget include $3 million for water and sewer services, $4.2 million for fire protective services, $2 million for the water transmission main replacement project, $1.8 million for the snow and ice control program, and $1 million for the final phase of the T’Railway.
Deputy Mayor Andrea Gosse says the 2023 budget was difficult given the challenges of the last year, but they kept the increases to a minimum and feel comfortable about what they’ve done. She says it is never easy to introduce increases, but they have been kept to a minimum.
