Members of Prince Edward County council’s Committee of the Whole.(Photo: John Spitters / Quintenews).
Prince Edward County council’s Committee of the Whole has said no to a request from the Order of Elks Lodges in Picton and Wellington.
The Elks, which is a non-profit organization, asked council to allow it a 40% property tax exemption under the county’s Charitable Rebate Program.
However, the committee voted to recommend council not expand the program to allow the Elks a rebate.
Councillor Roy Pennell said other non-profit groups were watching council’s decision.
Currently, with the exception of the Royal Canadian Legion, only registered charities are eligible for tax rebates in Prince Edward County.
Mayor Robert Quaiff and Councillor Steve Graham both wanted the Elks to receive a rebate, saying the organization donated thousands of dollars back into the community every year.
Councillors Fox and Maynard believed such requests should be discussed at budget time, and perhaps similar non-profit organizations could ask for grants through the community grant process.
