Your swimming pool tax, Madame Plante, we can do without!

Residents of Montreal and soon-to-be suburbs are in uproar after Mayor Valérie Plante announced the introduction of a third tax on swimming pools.

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

It cannot be denied that citizens already bear a substantial tax burden when purchasing a swimming pool. At the time of purchase, they pay Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Quebec Sales Tax (QST), which represents a substantial amount. However, the mayor is now considering adding a third tax, which has sparked outrage among many citizens.

Waterfall effect

Another aspect of the plan concerning 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 their property’s value. For residents already burdened with tax burdens, the prospect is not encouraging.

It is unfair to continue to tax citizens who are already under severe tax pressures in North America. Many residents share this sense of frustration and believe the mayor should focus on better managing costs.

Tax fairness

The proposal also raises questions about tax fairness. Residents wonder why pool owners are being targeted for this new tax, when other sources of revenue are explored. Some suggest that the mayor work more closely with the community to find more balanced solutions.

Although Valérie Plante says the project is necessary to meet the city’s financial needs, many citizens hope she will reconsider her position.

Finally, the introduction of the third tax on swimming pools, the cascading effect of property taxes and the second tax on transfer tax raised considerable controversy in the community. Residents are eager to see how the mayor will address the issue and whether he will take into account the legitimate concerns of already overtaxed citizens.

Eric Bernier, IT Consultant, Candiac