The heritage buildings in Township area are cherished resources that stand as links to a rich history. Most of these properties are privately owned and maintaining and restoring heritage buildings can be expensive.

The Township of Lake of Bays, encouraged by the LBHF, passed a by-law in 2008 establishing a Heritage Property Tax Relief Program. This program is intended to encourage owners of heritage properties to be good stewards by making regular investments in the maintenance of their buildings. Owners of properties that have been designated by council to be of significant heritage value may apply for tax relief.

The decision to designate is a mutual process between the property owner and the Township. This program has been successfully established in many towns and cities in Ontario. The Township of Lake of Bays is the first municipality in Muskoka to take this decision and they should be applauded for recognizing the value of our heritage buildings. More information on the program can be found on the Township’s website at http://www.lakeofbays.on.ca/content/heritage-tax-relief-program.