Prince Edward County Mayor Robert Quaiff. (Photo:Quinte News)
After months of back and forth, the farm tax ratio has been set in Prince Edward County.
Council decided by a vote of 9 to 6, to leave the farm tax ratio at 25 per cent, as recommended by staff.
While it wasn’t an easy decision to make, those around the horseshoe did agree some of their farmers do need a helping hand.
A recommendation brought forward by Councillor Dianne O’Brien was to create an ad hoc committee to support their young farmers.
Councillor Steve Ferguson told those in the packed council chambers there is no doubt in his mind some farmers require assistance.
Councillor Kevin Gale says farmers previously have had hardships and learned to adjust. He said no one likes to pay taxes.
Mayor Robert Quaiff feels it was a good decision.
He says he wants the committee up and running “last week” and to have “some good teeth” they can utilize this year.
Quaiff also told council that from being on the Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus he knows there are 13 other municipalities facing the same dilemma and none of them have decreased the farm tax ratio.
He says their previous ad hoc committees have helped to solve some big issues such as development and water and waste water conflicts.
He says he wants to know how to help young farmers and do it this year.
