New Brunswick is introducing changes to the Local Governance Act to help local governments develop vacant properties. The province wants to give municipalities the authority to impose a vacant property levy.

According to a report from CTV News, this move targets empty lots and unused buildings across the province, including right here in Saint John.

Putting Empty Lots to Work

Local Government Minister Aaron Kennedy says municipalities want more tools to put vacant properties to better use. “We want to see more empty properties put to use, more opportunities for housing, and communities that can grow and thrive,” Kennedy said in a news release.

Downtown New Brunswick president Patrick Richard welcomes the proposed amendment. He calls it another valuable tool in the municipal toolbox to support the revitalization of downtowns and urban centres. Encouraging local governments to address unused properties also drives reinvestment and economic growth.

Dan Murphy, executive director of the Union of Municipalities of New Brunswick, highlights the potential for new housing. “You have people who have been maybe sitting on a prime piece of development land for five, 10, 15 years that could be turned into housing, could be turned into commercial development or a mix of both,” Murphy said.

New Rules for Developers and Property Owners

The proposed amendments also allow local governments to enter into community benefit agreements with developers. Under these contracts, developers commit to providing services, local hiring, or funding to offset the anticipated impacts of their projects. The province states this allows municipalities to directly benefit from local economic development.

New Brunswick is also updating the property tax system to increase transparency and stability. Changes to the Assessment Act require property owners to respond to information requests within 45 days. If you fail to respond in time, you lose the right to request a review of your assessment.

Additionally, changes to the Residential Property Tax Relief Act extend the residential property tax credit to secondary attached or detached residences on the same parcel of land. Kennedy notes these amendments represent an important step forward in the property tax and fiscal reform processes to strengthen local governments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a vacant property levy?

A vacant property levy is a specific tax that municipalities charge owners of empty or unused properties. The goal is to encourage owners to develop the land or sell it to someone who will build on it.

How do community benefit agreements impact my neighborhood?

These agreements require developers to give back to the community when they build new projects. This includes commitments like hiring local workers, funding community initiatives, or providing new services to offset the impact of construction.

What happens if I ignore a property assessment information request?

Under the new rules, you have exactly 45 days to respond to a request for information regarding your property assessment. If you miss this deadline, you forfeit your right to appeal or request a review of your assessment.