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Monday, November 22, 1999
Mayor finds Sens issue taxing
Kanata Mayor Merle Nicholds said yesterday she is tired of taking the heat as the community responsible for saving NHL hockey in Canada.
"The city of Kanata is seen as the guy who's going to make or break this whole thing," Nicholds said. "We've taken the heat and put our necks out saying, 'we're willing to do as much as it takes as long as it's fair.'"
Nicholds said yesterday she supports reducing the Ottawa Senators property tax bill by moving the Corel Centre into another tax class, but won't commit to a full tax exemption for the financially-troubled club.
"I realize that is far short of what (Sens principal owner) Rod Bryden is looking for but it will still make a difference," said Nicholds.
REPORT TODAY
Kanata councillors are scheduled to receive a staff report today outlining tax options available to help the team. A crucial council vote on the property issue is expected tomorrow night.
Nicholds said she doubted the staff report would recommend an outright tax exemption for the Sens, and even if it did, she would not support it.
The province said recently it would match property tax cuts on the Corel Centre from the region and city of Kanata.
Nicholds said it was unrealistic for Kanata's other property tax payers to save the team by absorbing the Senators tax bill.
"The bottom line for me is this taxpayer be treated on a fair and level playing field like all other tax payers. They can't be given a special status," said Nicholds.
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