WHEREAS the vitality of Prince Edward County's main streets is essential to the economic, social, and cultural health of our community; WHEREAS there are numero

WHEREAS the vitality of Prince Edward County's main streets is essential to the economic, social, and cultural health of our community; WHEREAS there are numerous long-term vacant commercial storefronts, which detracts from the character of the community, reduces pedestrian traffic, discourages business investment, and negatively impacts the viability of surrounding small businesses; WHEREAS the current Municipal Act, 2001 does not provide municipalities with the explicit legal authority to implement a "Vacant Commercial Storefront Tax," although other jurisdictions are actively advocating for such tools to address similar challenges; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT The Council of the Corporation of the County of Prince Edward: THAT staff be directed to report back to Council on the feasibility of implementing a Vacant Commercial Storefront Tax, including an analysis of the necessary provincial legislative changes required, recommendations for stakeholder consultation, and to concurrently explore potential enforceable mechanisms available under current legislation; THAT the Council of the Corporation of the County of Prince Edward hereby requests that the Government of Ontario amend the Municipal Act, 2001 to grant Ontario municipalities the permissive authority to implement a "Vacant Commercial Storefront Tax" or similar levy to encourage the productive use of long-term vacant retail properties; THAT this resolution be forwarded to the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, the Premier of Ontario, and the Member of Provincial Parliament representing the Corporation of the County of Prince Edward for their immediate consideration; and THAT this resolution be forwarded to all 444 Municipalities in Ontario, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM), and the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) for their endorsement and advocacy. 11.7 Resolution from Councillor MacNaughton seeking Council support to reinstate requirements for compliance with the F