The City’s residential assessments were sent out to homeowners on Jan. 27, which showed an average 4.7 per cent increase for 2014 for residential properties.
An increase that was expected, according to the City’s assessment office.
“It’s to be expected (Airdrie) is a desirable community,” said Larry Laverty of the City of Airdrie’s assessment office.
“Residential markets are getting stronger (year-after-year). I don’t think residents will be surprised with their values increasing.”
The assessments are determined by measuring the number of home sales in the year compared to the year previous.
The average assessment shift from 2012 to 2013 for a single-family home is 4.09 per cent.
The City’s assessment department assesses residential, commercial and industrial properties to determine the estimated market value. This value is then used in the calculation of property taxes.
The assessed value of the property reflects the value of the property as of July 1 of the previous year, based on economic conditions and its physical condition and characteristics as of Dec. 31 of the previous year.
The City sends property assessment notices in advance of the property tax notices, so owners have the opportunity to review their assessments and raise any concerns they may have about their assessed value before taxes are calculated.
“Residents have 60 days to issue a complaint with their assessment,” Laverty said.
“Residents can contact the assessment office.”
To make a complaint contact the assessment office at 403-948-8800.
Key Assessment dates:
• Jan. 27: Assessment notices mailed
• Jan. 27-March 28: 60-day review period
• April/May: Council sets tax rates
• May 30: Property tax notices mailed
• June 30: Property taxes due
Curbside recycling fee
After council recently approved a curbside recycling program that will begin in April, the City has already started charging residents on their utility bills.
“There is a charge for curbside organics on the 2014 utility bills,” said Lynda Phelan, team leader of communication with the City of Airdrie.
“It has been prorated because it is a nine-month charge spread over 12 months.
The organics program begins in April 2014.”
The original fee of $5.26 per month has been prorated and calculated for nine months service, which totals $47.34 a year.
“The $47.34 was divided by 12 months (making the billing come to) $3.95 per month,” Phelan explained.
The $3.95 will appear on residents’ utility bill this year, and will return to the approved $5.26 per month for 2015.
For more information, visit www.airdrie.ca
