Statement from three municipal councillors

“Madam, Sir,

Following your request for an official position, we wish to clarify our shared vision of current fiscal issues. As councillors for Districts 3, 6, and 8, our priority is to maintain responsible budget management while respecting the fundamental principle of fiscal equity.

Here are the essential facts to understand our position:

The principle of property wealth and fiscal reality: In Québec, the municipal taxation system is based on the market value of properties. Just as income tax is progressive—those who earn more contribute more—property tax follows the value of the asset. It is, however, crucial to note that property tax rules are much less permissive than those for income tax: the municipal legal framework imposes a rigid structure where real value remains the only fair basis. With an average increase in the assessment roll of 38.7%, it is normal and equitable that properties whose value has grown exceptionally contribute according to this new property wealth.

The effort already made by the Ville: It is false to suggest that the Ville is not reacting. To compensate for this 38.7% jump in property value, the council massively reduced the tax rate. It is this adjustment that keeps the average tax increase between 2.3% and 3.2%, well below property inflation.

The inequity of averaging (Art. 253.36): The application of Article 253.36 would create an unfair fiscal distortion. By artificially capping the increase for those whose property has gained significant value, we would shift the burden to citizens whose property value has increased little. Why should a citizen whose value is stagnant subsidize the property wealth of their neighbor?

Our commitment to in-depth work: As expressed during the council meeting last February, we are committed to conducting rigorous, in-depth work throughout 2026 on the Ville’s budget structure. The objective is to arrive at concrete and lasting solutions for the 2027 budget, rather than adopting reactive measures that could weaken our public finances.

Our position:

We are opposed to the application of Art. 253.36 LFM for 2026, as it contravenes the principle of equity among taxpayers. Our concrete solution is the one we are already applying: the reduction of the tax rate, combined with the in-depth budget review exercise we are starting this year to ensure the long-term viability of our Ville.

We will continue to defend transparent and fair management for the citizens of our respective districts and those of the entire Ville de Mont-Tremblant.

Please accept, Sir/Madam, the expression of our distinguished sentiments.”

Élise Léonard – Councillor, District 3
Mathieu Paquette – Councillor, District 6
Patrick Léonard – Councillor, District 8