Property Tax Reform: A Long-Standing Call for Change
- Jeff Thompson
- Jul 4
- 2 min read
GNB is asking for public input on property tax reform. While it may seem like a policy issue, it’s a conversation about the future of our communities. Read more to understand why.
For decades, experts and community leaders have recognized the need to modernize how municipalities are funded and governed. From the Byrne Report (1963) to the Finn Report (2008) to the Expert Panel on Fiscal Arrangements (2022), a common theme has emerged: municipalities need greater fiscal tools and autonomy to realize their full potential.
A Legacy of Warnings: What the Reports Have Said
The Byrne Report (1963) recognized that while the Province would assume responsibility for services to people, municipalities needed access to sufficient property tax revenues to fund services to property. This foundational insight continues to shape New Brunswick’s municipal finance system today
The Finn Report (2008) was clear: “The current municipal structure in New Brunswick is not fiscally sustainable. A new structure, coupled with a revised fiscal framework, is required to meet the challenges ahead.”
The Expert Panel on Provincial-Municipal Fiscal Arrangements (2022) emphasized: “Municipalities must be equipped with predictable, adequate and diversified revenue sources to support their mandated services and infrastructure needs.”
In short, the need for reform is not new — it’s long overdue.
How Fredericton is Funded: A Heavy Reliance on Property Tax
The City of Fredericton, like many municipalities in New Brunswick, depends on property taxes as its primary source of revenue. Here’s how property taxes have factored into Fredericton’s General Fund revenues over the past five years:
5-Year Average: 87.5% of revenue comes from property taxes.
This level of dependency places pressure on homeowners and leaves the City with limited flexibility to respond to growth, inflation, or new priorities.
Why This Consultation Matters
This consultation is more than a checkbox exercise. It’s a chance to act on decades of research and recommendations, finally. For communities like the City of Fredericton, a fairer and more flexible funding systems mean:
Greater control over planning and growth
Smarter investments in infrastructure and services
More responsive and accountable government
Have Your Say
If you believe, as I do, that local government should be empowered—not handcuffed—by outdated fiscal rules, then now is the time to join the conversation.
Let’s make sure Fredericton and all New Brunswick municipalities have the tools they need to thrive.
This campaign is not just about one person. It’s about all of us — listening to one another, planning together, and building a community where every voice matters.
Let’s move Ward 10 forward, together.
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