Lethbridge County Council passes the Commercial Industrial Municipal Tax Incentive Bylaw. (Photo: Lethbridge County Council, December 2, 2022)

By Sarah Jones

Some businesses in Lethbridge County eligible for tax rebate

Dec 2, 2022 | 1:54 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Lethbridge County Council is offering some major tax incentives for eligible businesses after passing a new bylaw.

The Commercial Industrial Municipal Tax Incentive Bylaw was approved so that new or expanding businesses with a minimum assessment increase of $500,000 will be eligible for a three-year rebate on municipal taxes.

That means a 75% rebate in the first year, 50% in year two and 25% in year three.

In April 2022, Lethbridge County Council had its first reading of the bylaw that would introduce short-term municipal tax exemption incentives.

Council decided it would be in the best interest of the public to direct administration to seek additional input from the community before moving forward.

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Over the summer, a survey and open town hall conducted on the topic received significant feedback.

County Reeve Tory Campbell said in a release, “After reviewing several options for incentives and taking the public input we received into consideration, Council feels that this bylaw will encourage new development in Lethbridge County to increase our assessment base and bring additional jobs to the area.”

“We are open for business and believe offering a short-term exemption on municipal taxes can further grow our economy for the benefit of all,” he added.

Campbell went on, “To stay competitive in today’s economic climate, Lethbridge County must evaluate options that will encourage growth in our commercial and industrial sectors.”

Similar policies have been implemented across the province in several municipalities to attract, expand and retain local businesses.

Read more Lethbridge News Now.