Annual Auditor General Report Details Considerations to Improve Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Reductions and Access to Park Space

Ontario Auditor General Bonnie Lysyk tabled her 2020 Annual Report today. The report reviews some provincial GHG reduction actions and access to park space in Ontario, calling for an overall focus on climate change as an all-of-government priority as committed to in the Made In Ontario Environment Plan.

This pays particular attention to GHG emissions in the building sector as Ontario’s third most significant source and makes recommendations on better energy conservation measures through the Ontario Building Code and updating the Long-Term Energy Plan to reduce fossil fuel use in buildings, particularly natural gas use which has been increasing. Assessment of building inspection programs and training for inspectors and trades is also reviewed.

The Report reviews access to park and natural spaces in Ontario and suggests improved focus on biodiversity in these areas to protect the natural environment. Recommendations call for improved focus on land use planning and ecology.

Ministry of Finance Clarifies BET Rate Reduction Impacts to Municipalities

On November 17th, the Ministry of Finance wrote to Treasurers/Clerk-Treasurers across the Province to clarify several announcements related to property tax and assessment measures from the provincial budget.

Of note, the letter addresses recent concerns on reducing Business Education Tax (BET) rates for municipalities that host facilities that fall under the payment in lieu (PIL) category of property taxation with assessed values in commercial and industrial tax classes. The Ministry indicates it will ensure municipalities are not negatively impacted by the BET reductions. To that end, the Province will maintain BET rates at the 2020 BET rate for properties whose PIL of education taxes are permitted to be retained by municipalities.

AMO continues to analyze in conjunction with association partners to evaluate the municipal impacts of these proposed property tax and assessment changes.

AMO’s COVID-19 Resources page is being updated continually so you can find critical information in one place. Please send any of your municipally related pandemic questions to covid19@amo.on.ca.

*Disclaimer: The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) is unable to provide any warranty regarding the accuracy or completeness of third-party submissions. Distribution of these items does not imply an endorsement of the views, information or services mentioned.