Regina—SARM is disappointed with the Sask Growth Coalition campaign, as RMs have growing concerns with tax arrears.
At the SARM 2021 Midterm Convention, 3 resolutions were passed by over 1000 delegates and 256 RM’s asking the Government of Saskatchewan for legislation that permits stronger tax enforcement tools for municipalities on unpaid taxes from oil and gas companies.
SARM strongly disagrees with the SK Growth Coalition on municipal taxation and supports its members’ resolutions regarding unpaid taxes.
“The growing number of tax arrears is concerning to SARM,” says its president, Ray Orb, adding “Just as concerning as the arrears are the SK Growth Coalition’s recommendations and tactics. At a time when the business community, including rural municipalities, should be showing a united front to resist the federal Liberal government’s assault on the oil and gas industry in Saskatchewan, this coalition has chosen to unilaterally propose changes that would cause a property tax shift to agricultural and other rural property owners in this province.”
SARM also noted there may be differences time to time between municipalities and industry on taxation, but there is a balance that is necessary to ensure fair rates and proper infrastructure within RM’s.
“There are enough challenges in our current environment, and not working together only makes things more difficult,” says Orb. “We have a long history of supporting industry in Saskatchewan, and a lot of Saskatchewan’s major economic activity occurs in RM’s.”
SARM regularly meets with various industry groups to work on issues and hear concerns they may have with municipalities and hopes to continue positive relationships into the future.
– 30 –
SARM is the independent association that represents its membership of rural municipal government in Saskatchewan. We champion the value of rural Saskatchewan, and as its voice, we speak strong and clear to represent RM’s.
For more information please contact:
Corette Mihalcea, Communications & Marketing Coordinator
communications@sarm.ca or 306.761.3931
