Saanich News Report....

Farm review panel set

By Roszan Holmen - Saanich News - February 13, 2008

Saanich Mayor Frank Leonard will co-chair a provincial panel reviewing BC Assessment’s reclassification of farms – including 97 in Saanich – that resulted in a significant tax hike for farmers.

“Ever since this issue has popped up, Mayor Leonard has… taken a strong leadership position that we need to make sure people are treated in a fair and equitable manner,” said B.C. Minister of Small Business and Revenue Rick Thorpe, who called for the review in December.

The question of who will fill the panel falls to Leonard and co-chair Blair Lekstrom, Peace River South MLA.

“I’m really concerned to ensure we have representation either from the sector affected or at least somebody who understands the impact of this on the farm sector,” Saanich MLA David Cubberley said.

Thorpe has said there will be local representatives on the panel, but warned those selected must represent more than just their own narrow view of the issue.

Saanich farmer Lana Popham, who organized a public meeting to call for a reversal of the farm assessments, has forwarded her name for consideration as a panel member. “I’m glad that they’re taking time (to pick the panelists), because it lets me know that they think it’s a very serious situation.”

The rest of the panel will be announced by the end of February.