Richmond Hill Expands Tax Relief for Residents in Need

Urges those who can pay on time to do so in support of the community

RICHMOND HILL – Richmond Hill recognizes the current challenges faced by many residents and businesses and is continuing to put measures in place to help those most in need. Building on the interim measures announced March 26, Richmond Hill Council voted to expand tax and water bill relief measures to support those in the community dealing with financial hardship due to COVID-19. These include:

• No penalty and interest charges on late property tax payments until January 1, 2021
• No penalty and interest charges for late payment of water bills until January 1, 2021
• Maintaining 2019 water/wastewater rates until further notice, providing York Region waives their wholesale rate increase
• Maintaining 2019 stormwater rates until 2021
• Waiving the City’s NSF (non-sufficient funds) fee of $45 for the remainder of 2020

In an effort to come together to get through this difficult time, residents and businesses who are able are strongly encouraged to pay their property taxes on the scheduled due dates. This will help Richmond Hill continue providing essential services such as fire and emergency service, waste collection and safe drinking water, while supporting residents and businesses who are facing financial challenges due to COVID-19. The next property tax installment is due June 1, 2020.

Account holders on the City’s pre-authorized payment plan who are unable to make their payment can withdraw from the program by providing written notice at least five business days prior to the next scheduled draw. More information can be found online at  RichmondHill.ca/COVID19 or by calling Access Richmond Hill during business hours at 905-771-8800.

Richmond Hill is also looking ahead to helping local businesses recover. Staff will present a plan to create a “Recover Richmond Hill” Economic Recovery Task Force to Council April 8. The Task Force will coordinate continued support for the local economy to set Richmond Hill back on the path to prosperity. For more information on current business supports, visit RichmondHill.ca/BusinessHelp.

For information and updates on City services and facilities, visit RichmondHill.ca/COVID19 or follow us on Twitter @myRichmondHill.

Quotes

“We know how difficult this situation is for many of our residents and businesses and we are working hard to offer you the help and relief you need to get through these challenging times. I encourage those who can pay property tax on time to do so, as a way to help the community and those in need and to ensure City services can continue for everyone. I want the people of Richmond Hill to know that we are listening to your concerns and will continue to work with York Region and the province to keep the community safe and to ultimately help us recover and move forward.” – Dave Barrow, Mayor

Contact
Kathleen Graver, Manager, Communication Services, 905-771-2418 or kathleen.graver@richmondhill.ca