"Although I have resisted the lure of the truly magical invention, the computer, up until now, recent events have persuaded me that it's time to get with the program, so to speak. It seems that the only way I'll be able to get feedback from the maximum number of people is to go, somewhat reluctantly, online."
Briefly, here is the story:
I have been totally involved, since December, 1996, buying an old houseboat, watching it sink six days later, spending the next three years (working two jobs) and every penny I earned, rebuilding it, and finally launching it in October of 1999. In the years since, I have gradually turned it into my own little paradise, and apparently a joy to many others as well. Even as the amount of moorage I pay worked itself up to the $1000 per month range. I never had a moment of doubt that I was paying my way, and a welcome addition to the wharf and the town.
I was therefore, totally shocked when, after being here for ten years, I was told that I was suddenly to be included in the tax rolls for the Town of Gibsons. A representative of B.C. Assessment had come (or been invited) to my home, put a "property" value on the land beneth the ocean under my boat. They did an arbitrary assessment of it, added "improvements" and decided how much tax I should pay.
I do not own any land. I didn't buy it, can't sell it, can't build on it, have no deed or rights to it. I can't leave it to my heir when I die, I can't subdivide it, or ask for zoning changes. In NO way, is it mine. I can't even see it (except at very low tide!)
Please explain, then why I am being asked to pay land tax. I am a renter of this space. There are other people here, who chose to live on their boats, and pay moorage and live-aboard fees. Not ONE other boat here in our Gibsons harbour has been assessed!
Discussions with BC Assessment, the review and appeal councils, Ian Poole (financial director, Town of Gibsons) and I have not had any answers that I understand or accept. I did learn that I am considered a "test case" I suppose in an experiment to broaden their tax base. Who is next, our local campers, tenters, RV owners, boater here for a day or month? Very scary stuff.
I've lived and worked on the Sunshine Coast for 45 years, and have always felt like a member in good standing in the community. So, why, please am |I being subjected to this stressful situation? I have been told that i\ risk the seizure of my home unless I comply with this blatantly unfair situation. The prospect of homelessness if I'm non compliant is frightening to anyone, and particularly now as I approach offical senior status.
I would pay happily if I belived it was fair. I don't.
- Liz Williams
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