Holt Liberals advance bill letting municipalities tax vacant properties

The Holt Liberals introduced amendments that would let municipalities create a vacant-property levy through their own bylaws if they choose. Local Government Minister Aaron Kennedy called it another tool to spur housing and development, saying larger cities will likely show the most interest. Details, including how vacant property is defined, still need regulations. Union of Municipalities executive director Dan Murphy said owners have long sat on prime land. Green Leader David Coon backed pressure on long-empty sites such as Fredericton's Centennial Building, while realtor Tim Somerville earlier urged incentives over penalties. The bill also enables community benefit agreements as well.