Flood victims in High River, Alta., eligible for property tax relief

HIGH RIVER, Alta. – Residents and business owners affected by last June’s devastating flood in High River, Alta., are looking at a tax break.

The town south of Calgary, with support from the Alberta government, has established a property tax relief program.

Anyone whose property was severely damaged and who couldn’t occupy the premises for longer than 90 days is eligible to have all portions of the tax waived.

The province has set aside $84 million over three years for municipalities that forgive taxes on residential and non-residential properties.

There’s no final decision on how much of the year the tax relief will cover, but the town expects to grant approved applicants at least a six-month credit.

The flood forced the entire town to be evacuated and some people still aren’t able to return to their homes.