Sample letter to MLA regarding Property Tax Deferments Change

Date: XXXX, 2026
Dear XXXXX
MLA, XXXXCX Riding
Parliament Buildings
Victoria, BC

Re: Request to Oppose Proposed Property Tax Deferment Changes in 2026 Budget

Dear XXXX

I hope this finds you well and thank you sincerely for your ongoing service to our community. I am writing to respectfully ask that you consider voting against the proposed changes to the Property Tax Deferment Program as outlined in the 2026 Budget.

As you know, the Property Tax Deferment Program has long been a critical support for senior homeowners and others on fixed incomes who choose to age in place. Currently, eligible participants can defer annual property taxes under simple interest, at modest rates tied to prime minus a margin. This structure keeps the cost of deferral predictable and affordable for those living on limited retirement incomes.

Under the proposed changes, the interest rate will increase to prime plus two percent, and interest will be compounded monthly for all taxes deferred in 2026 and future years. This represents a significant shift from the existing simple interest model.

Although the government has framed this as a fiscal measure, there are real concerns about how this will affect the people who most rely on the program:

1.     Increased Financial Burden on Fixed Incomes
Seniors on fixed incomes already face rising costs for housing, healthcare, utilities, and daily living. Compounding interest at a higher rate will accelerate the growth of their deferred tax debt over time, reducing equity in their homes and placing additional pressure on limited retirement resources. Even a modest deferment amount can grow substantially under compounding terms.

2.     Risk of Reduced Home Security and Forced Sales
For many older homeowners, the deferment program helps them remain in their homes long past retirement. Increasing the long-term cost of deferral could, in practice, force some seniors to sell their homes to repay growing debt, especially if market conditions fluctuate or health and care needs change.

3.     Equity and Intergenerational Security
While it is clear the province must balance its fiscal plan, policy changes should not disproportionately affect those with the least flexibility, such as low and modest-income seniors. The existing structure was designed with this vulnerability in mind, and altering it risks undermining its purpose.

4.     Concerns Regarding Pause on Seniors Housing Infrastructure and alternatives

5.     In addition to the deferment changes, I am concerned about reported pauses or delays in seniors living infrastructure projects.If development or expansion of seniors housing slows, there will be fewer accessible and affordable options for those needing to transition out of detached homes.

The Tax Deferment program has historically served as a lifeline for seniors and others seeking to maintain housing stability, and many advocate that it remain accessible and fair rather than escalating cost. Evidence from local reporting and community discussion shows this is a real concern for those directly impacted.

For these reasons, I respectfully urge you to consider opposing this component of the Budget and advocating for older homeowners and others who depend on this program.

Thank you very much for your time and for all you do to represent the Quilchena Riding. Please let me know if you would like to discuss this further.

In appreciation of your concern,

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