date posted: 2003-06-01
Richmond Hill Council recently took the unprecedented step of granting a 60 day grace period for payment of property taxes for businesses and residences in Town. This measure (the first by any municipality in Ontario) was taken to recognize and assist those in our community who have been hard hit by SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) and its after effects.
When the Town's hospital is closed for 3 weeks, when thousands of health care workers and others are in quarantine, when many residents are laid off or have their employment income reduced, when businesses are hurting; when hotels, restaurants and attractions experience significant drops in attendance; the need for special action is clear.
Town Council unanimously endorsed a 60 day tax payment grace period to assist those who need a financial break while we recover from the SARS outbreak. Anyone wishing to participate may do so without interest or penalty being charged until after July 7, 2003. Municipalities have limited resources to react to a significant event such as the SARS outbreak. Council is hopeful that residents and businesses alike will benefit from
this grace period and that other municipalities will follow suit.
We can all do our part to assist in recovering from this situation; take in a movie, go out to dinner at one of the many fine restaurants in Town, or shop at one of our downtown stores or one of our malls. Spending money in Richmond Hill is good for everyone!
I would like to take this opportunity to express my personal appreciation and admiration for the health care workers who have performed a service far above and beyond the call of duty. The conditions that these dedicated professionals have and continue to work under are stressful and exhausting - I know, I am married to one!
Our health care workers are true local heroes - please take a moment to say thank you if you encounter one.