Effective July 1, 2010 the provincial government will institute a "Harmonized Sales Tax" that will have dramatic effects on the cost of numerous items. This new tax will raise the cost of a long list of goods and services not previously subject to the provincial sales tax, including:
Electricity, home heating oil and gas at the pump
Haircuts, newspapers and magazines, internet and cable
Home renovations, heating & air conditioning repairs
Accounting, legal & real estate fees
Condo fees and new home sales; rents will also go up
Minor hockey registration fees will increase, green fees and gym fees will also be taxed&&
What effect will this have on user groups in St. George?
An 8% increase, or in the case of St. George Minor Hockey, an additional $9 200 in ice rental fees, $1000 for player insurance as well as increases to other expenses.
&&St. George Minor Hockey is doing everything possible to keep fees at current levels. THIS INCREASE IS NOT ACCEPTABLE as it will likely have to be passed on to our membership through increased fees.&&
Ontario Tory Leader Tim Hudak visited Brantford to discuss the "Harmonized Sales Tax" with local groups. He calls it a "tax grab", while local sports organizations are concerned that fees will have to increase.&&
Many municipalities have joined together to pressure the government to revise its plan based on how it will affect user groups. Most of the user groups are youth based. To date, there have been no revisions.
&For more information visit www.daltonsalestax.com