Your pool tax, Madam Blunt, we can do without it!

Residents of Montreal and its suburbs are soon in turmoil following Mayor Valerie Plante’s announcement regarding the possibility of introducing a third tax on swimming pools.

With citizens already bemoaning the high tax burdens in North America, this proposal raised serious concerns about its impact on pool owners.

It is undeniable that citizens already bear a large tax burden when acquiring a swimming pool. When buying, they pay Goods and Services Tax (GST) as well as Quebec Sales Tax (QST), which is a significant amount. However, the mayor is now considering adding a third tax, which has angered many citizens.

waterfall effect

Another aspect of this proposal that concerns residents is the cascading effect on property taxes. Installing a swimming pool can definitely increase property value. This means that pool owners should expect their property taxes to increase in proportion to the increase in the value of their property. For residents already burdened with tax burdens, this prospect is far from encouraging.

It is not fair to continue to burden citizens who are already under one of the most severe tax pressures in North America. Many residents share this frustration and believe the mayor should focus on better managing expenses.

Tax justice

This proposal also raises questions about tax fairness. Residents wonder why pool owners would be specifically targeted for this new tax, when other sources of revenue could be explored. Some suggest the mayor should work more closely with the community to find more balanced solutions.

While Valerie Blunt maintains that this proposal is necessary to meet the city’s financial needs, many citizens hope she will reconsider her position.

In the end, the introduction of a third tax on swimming pools to the cascading effect of property taxes and a second cascade on the transfer tax created a great controversy within the community. Residents are eager to know how the mayor will deal with this problem and whether she will take into account the legitimate concerns of citizens who are already subject to high taxes.

Eric Bernier, IT consultant, Candyac