06-14-2006, 05:28 AM
City of Toronto Act outlines new taxation power
Canadian Press
TORONTO â The Ontario government has passed a law that gives the City of Toronto new taxing powers.
The legislation, first introduced early this year, gives Toronto's city council the chance to institute municipal taxes on alcohol served at bars and restaurants, plus movie and concert tickets.
Toronto Mayor David Miller says it will help develop "made-for-Toronto'' policies that could reduce the city's reliance on property taxes.
The Ontario government has indicated that other municipalities could eventually get some of the extra taxing powers granted to Toronto, but hasn't specified.
Municipal Affairs Minister John Gerretsen says the taxing powers will make Toronto more autonomous and accountable.
But opposition critics say the move just opens the door to more taxes for city residents and businesses.
Canadian Press
TORONTO â The Ontario government has passed a law that gives the City of Toronto new taxing powers.
The legislation, first introduced early this year, gives Toronto's city council the chance to institute municipal taxes on alcohol served at bars and restaurants, plus movie and concert tickets.
Toronto Mayor David Miller says it will help develop "made-for-Toronto'' policies that could reduce the city's reliance on property taxes.
The Ontario government has indicated that other municipalities could eventually get some of the extra taxing powers granted to Toronto, but hasn't specified.
Municipal Affairs Minister John Gerretsen says the taxing powers will make Toronto more autonomous and accountable.
But opposition critics say the move just opens the door to more taxes for city residents and businesses.