AMA Formalizes Support to First Nations for Assessing Linear Property – MOU Signed with FNTC

EDMONTON, ALBERTA (July 14, 2015) The First Nations Tax Commission (FNTC) and the Alberta Ministry of Municipal Affairs (MA) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to share information used to prepare assessments with First Nations in Alberta.

The MOU serves to provide a framework for understanding and cooperation in formalizing the approach to share information with First Nations who are implementing property taxation in Alberta. Specifically, the FNTC and the MA have agreed on a process for providing linear property information to First Nations for preparing property assessments on reserve lands. Linear properties include wells, pipelines and other utility properties such as power lines.

This MOU is an important step forward for First Nations who require access to information to administer their taxation system. MA collects information from a variety of sources to prepare assessments for off-reserve linear property. Under this framework MA will share relevant information with First Nations to assist First Nations in preparing their own assessments of linear property.

Accurate assessments and standards are a cornerstone of property taxation systems, where accurate assessments are based on the best available information. The information provided by MA will help First Nations produce linear property assessments consistent with off-reserve linear properties in Alberta. This MOU benefits First Nations in Alberta and their taxpayers. It will mean better information, transparency and administration for taxpayers and First Nation members. This means an improved investment climate on First Nation lands and potentially more employment for First Nation members and other Albertans and revenues for First Nation governments.

The First Nations Tax Commission is a Commission established under the First Nations Fiscal Management Act with a mandate, among other things; assist First Nations in the exercise of their jurisdiction with respect to property assessment and taxation on reserve lands and to build capacity in First Nations to administer their taxation systems.

The Ministry of Alberta Municipal Affairs’ responsibilities include assisting municipalities in the provision of local government in part by providing programs and services that help ensure Albertans are served by accountable and effective local governments and live in strong and safe communities.