Calls Surge to Reassess B.C. Property Tax Exemptions Now

UPDATE: Urgent calls are intensifying to reevaluate British Columbia’s automatic property tax exemptions, particularly in Vancouver, where approximately $1 billion in properties owned by private and independent schools remain untaxed. This growing scrutiny comes as community leaders and officials question the value these properties bring to local taxpayers.

Vancouver mayoral candidate Kareem Allam and member of the Overdose Prevention Society stated, “After 56 years of this system, it’s worthwhile to reexamine who gets an exemption.” Many are concerned that some religious organizations are stepping back from providing essential humanitarian support, sparking debate over whether these tax exemptions should continue.

Current city councillor Lucy Maloney is advocating for a shift in provincial exemptions, pushing for vertical farms to receive the same property tax breaks as traditional farms. “It’s critical to analyze where we’re giving tax breaks that aren’t contributing to society,” she emphasized, highlighting the urgency for change.

The B.C. Humanist Association, representing atheists and agnostics, has long championed a community benefit test for exempt organizations. Executive Director Ian Bushfield stated, “We don’t deny many churches do good work, but is that promotion of faith itself charitable? We don’t think so.” Their proposal includes a simple questionnaire to help municipal councils determine the societal impact of these organizations.

Notably, CTV News has uncovered that private and independent schools in Vancouver occupy properties worth a staggering $1 billion. These institutions benefit from automatic property tax deferrals each year, included in the city’s annual reports on exemptions.

In Vancouver’s upscale Shaughnessy neighborhood, two properties classified as “farm buildings” are valued at only $11,000 each, while neighboring homes have land values of approximately $10 million. According to BC Assessment officials, “With these (approved) properties, you have usage requirements and income requirements,” illustrating potential loopholes in the current system.

Further complicating the issue, the Society of Kabalarians is listed as a “charitable organization” in Vancouver’s exempt directory. This group was labeled a “cult” by a 2002 Supreme Court of Canada decision. Their beliefs include harmonizing birthdates with one’s purpose in life, raising questions about the criteria for tax exemptions.

The Lower Mainland hosts a diverse array of religious organizations, with hundreds of gurdwaras, temples, and churches actively engaged in community service. Dr. Kala Singh, chair of the Multi-faith Summit Council of BC, stated, “Many churches and gurdwaras are feeding the people.” He argues that tracking the impact of these charitable activities is impractical, as they often serve individuals without formal records.

In a statement to CTV News, the Catholic Archdiocese emphasized its role as one of the largest charitable entities in BC, driven by dedicated volunteers across 77 parishes. Their outreach efforts include supporting over 300 people daily in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside through soup kitchens and family assistance programs.

As scrutiny grows, local leaders and community members are calling for immediate action to reassess the automatic property tax exemptions in British Columbia. This developing story has significant implications for tax policy and community support, ensuring that public funds are allocated effectively for the benefit of all residents.

Stay tuned for more updates as this urgent issue unfolds.