Halifax property tax increase approved despite public opposition
Council had a choice: respond to thousands of residents struggling with rising costs, or proceed with significant spending and tax increases—and chose the latter. In a decisive 14–3 vote, HRM Council approved the budget despite widespread public opposition, raising serious concerns about affordability and fiscal accountability. The approved increase will drive property tax bills up by approximately 9.5%, but for most rental buildings—where assessments are uncapped—the impact is expected to be significantly higher, with many facing double-digit increases. For rental housing providers, this translates directly into sharply higher operating costs, placing upward pressure on rents and further straining affordability across the market. RHPNS will continue to make sure every resident in their districts remembers exactly who voted to make their lives more expensive.