Support Local Non-Profits or Keep Tax Revenue?
🏛️ Rossland Council is deciding whether to exempt four beloved local non-profits from paying property taxes in 2026
This would save these community organizations $27,000 combined - but means other taxpayers effectively subsidize this through foregone city revenue.
🗳️ Third reading vote happening at the next council meeting
🎨 Rossland Arts Centre Society - Community arts programming for all ages (85% Rossland residents)
🎠 2nd Rossland Scouts - Youth programming ages 5-26, serving 43 kids with 12 volunteers for 70+ years
👶 Golden Bear Children's Centre - Licensed childcare for 72 children, 30+ families on waiting list
🎭 Rossland Light Opera Players - Community theatre with 130 members, produces 2 shows annually
📜 How the Program Works:
Under provincial law, cities can exempt charitable and non-profit organizations from property taxes. Organizations must reapply annually.
🗺️ Two groups missed the 2025 deadline and got emergency grants - now applying properly for 2026.
⏰ Deadline: October 31st to meet provincial requirements
Should Rossland grant $27,000 in property tax exemptions to these four local non-profit organizations?
🗓️ What's Next:
This is the third and final reading - if passed, the exemptions take effect for 2026.
🏢 Join the Discussion: Attend the next council meeting or submit written comments
⚖️ The Balance: Community benefit vs. taxpayer burden - what's your view?
🗣️ Every exemption means other residents pay slightly more or services get reduced