Van Loan's bill to give historic buildings a 20 per cent tax credit set to pass

Yorkregion.com
March 27, 2017
By Simon Martin

The life of an opposition MP can be difficult with legislative accomplishments few and far between.

But York-Simcoe Conservative MP Peter Van Loan has nearly shepherded a bill across the finish line. Van Loan’s Bill C-323 would create a tax credit for the rehabilitation of historic properties. Based on a pilot project in the early 2000s, the bill would create a program that balances cost with efficiency. With 2017 being the 150th anniversary of Confederation, there was no more appropriate time to introduce this program, Van Loan said.

“This bill represents a historic opportunity to invest in our cultural heritage,” he said. “It is very exciting that the House of Commons supports our initiative. We’re looking forward to debate in committee.”

Bill C-323 aims to reduce the demolition of Canada’s heritage infrastructure, and instead encourage the rehabilitation of these culturally significant buildings. C-323 would create a 20 per cent tax credit for rehabilitation of recognized historic places. The tax credit would be available to properties that appear on the National Register of Historic Places.

In York Region, there are dozens of properties that appear on the register. In Newmarket some of the properties include the Newmarket Train Station, John Bogart House, Newmarket Federal Building, Old Town Hall, Pioneer Burying Ground, Stuart Scott Public House. In East Gwillimbury; the Sharon Temple. In Aurora; the Hillary House, CN Railway Station, the Armoury, the Church Street School. In Georgina; the Briar’s Manor and Peacock Houses. In Markham, Old Town Hall, CN Railway Station, the Wedding Cake House.

“It is my view that Bill C-323 would reconnect Canadians to their cultural heritage, as citizens would have been more likely to seek out heritage designations for their historic properties” said Van Loan.

The bill passed by a vote of 150 to 139. All Conservatives, New Democrats and 22 Liberals voted for the Bill.

It is due to be discussed at the Environment Committee in the near future.

Van Loan was first elected as MP in 2004 and currently serves as the shadow cabinet critic for Canadian Heritage and National Historic Sites.