The umbrella organization for towns and cities is taking a deep dive into new legislation governing the operation of towns and local service districts.

The provincial government has brought in a replacement piece of legislation for the Municipalities Act with numerous changes.

Amy Coady, President of Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador, is encouraged by some of the changes such as the elimination of poll tax. Nearly 50 communities still charge poll tax, a levy which applies equally to all who live in the town regardless of income or means.

They’re pleased to see there will be one consistent tax but Coady says property tax is regressive and not as form of revenue that can sustain a municipality.