A contemplated new surcharge on Toronto commercial parking spaces is likely to remain on the backburner for awhile yet. The Municipal Property Assessment Corporation’s (MPAC) assistance is deemed essential to accurately compile an inventory of taxable properties, and the agency hasn’t formally confirmed it will participate.

Even if MPAC commits to the project relatively soon, a new report to City Council’s executive committee estimates it will take 12 to 18 months to fully develop the framework for implementing a levy. For now, City staff advise the work is effectively on pause.

“MPAC’s involvement is critical based on their unique service offerings. This includes access to property assessment data, support for technology upgrades, and ability to develop and maintain audit, request for reconsideration and appeal processes,” the report states. “MPAC has indicated that their commitment to participate further in this work is subject to their Board’s approval and may require engagement with the appropriate provincial government officials.”

Council is slated to consider introducing the special levy during its upcoming 2025 budget deliberations. Thus far, preliminary estimates suggest that up to $108 million annually could be raised, but several other factors may come into play including: exemptions; the chosen rate structure; implementation costs; and potential negative impact on the assessed values of affected properties.