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Property Assessments for Ontario Horse Farms
Update: Dec 18, 2004
Very recently, we have had 2 very worthwhile discussions with lawyers who are very well versed in this subject. We may need to go down this route. One discussed exactly how to get the legislation change we need and could be very helpful to us. She was also successful in turning one large stable's assessment back to agricultural awhile back. Don Good from Country Guide was so kind to come here from Ottawa Thursday night and spend 2 hours discussing the issues and he had many ideas on the challenge overall. He helped the Maple Syrup farmers and could also be very helpful to us!
IF we need a lawyer to get the result we need - we need cash - I will continue discussions with OEF, ARE and contact Equine Canada but we may need a large number of people/stables to join together to raise these funds. Any ideas?
We need media attention! For starters... CBC Radio is coming here Tuesday and The Toronto Star is planning an article ASAP. The Rider's Advertiser is publishing the ARE News Release shortly. The Rider and Horse Sport are planning more articles. Local papers? Can you help? New Hamburg Independent did an article Dec 1st. I know a copy has somehow reached the Minister of Agriculture office and MPAC!! Not from me!
We also need all horse groups/associations to come together and unite on this issue. Please pass on this information to associations and individuals and get involved. We need to represent all groups - not just a small percentage of stables. Please contact us or the OEF or ARE to stay united and consistent on this issue.
We also now have confirmation that the 'right people' from the Minister of Finance office will meet with us in early January. Other Ministries have already agreed to meet.
Re. Some Thoroughbred racing and breeding farms now being assessed commercial... C.T.H.S. handed a copy of an email from us warning of the taxation and ARE's press release to all Directors at Thursday's board meeting. Once they have had a chance to review it, the C.T.H.S. will be in touch with us. Dianne Denby, the Editor/Marketing Manager of INTERNATIONAL THOROUGHBRED DIGEST is publishing a warning next week.
Re. Some Standardbred racing and breeding farms now being assessed commercial - we know of some in Essex county near Windsor. The office of Ted Smith of Standardbred Canada has been informed and they are looking at posting information on web sites and in TROT.
OHRIA has also been informed.
On Sunday Dec 19th , Jim and I are meeting with 2 stable owners Rene Hunderup and Jim Henry near King City - a TB farm and a Boarding and Lesson Farm. We will be sharing valuable information and strategizing. Discussing real examples of what has worked in the past and seeing if this will be helpful as we go forward - including the successful Woodbine situation over their backstretch.
Cam-Am All Breeds Equine Emporium in London is having a panel discussion on this Mar 19th and March 20th. Paul is very supportive and helpful regarding this issue!
We are now getting calls from Real Estate agents concerned about whether horse farms will be saleable. If property assessed as commercial - who will want to pay the taxes? Will you need 40% down because it is a commercial property? If not taxed commercial today - when will it be?
I had a call from someone wanting to lease a stable for boarders - what will the taxes be? Good question. If commercially taxed, she won't be able to make a go of it.
Please keep the letter campaign going, contact media, pass on information to everyone, pass on the OEF site www.horse.on.ca where information and the letters are.
Appeal all assessments - do not sign off on any. Please call us if you have been assessed, want advice or want to get more involved or have helpful information for us.
Discussions and UPDATES from us on the EMG site www.equiman.com - Msg Boards under General Horsey Chats. - 'Tax Assessment Letter Campaign', 'Commercial designation of Farms', and possibly others.
Contact: Leslie Brooks or Jim Waechter, 519-696-3688, JLnet@Quixnet.net - Chairs of the ARE Committee fighting the Tax Crisis. Or call Andrea McGill at ARE 1-888-353-5551.
Thank you for your support from all horses, horse people and related industries!
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