On-Line Property Tax Analysis (OPTA)
Our firm is proud to be part of the team that delivers the OPTA system to Ontario municipalities on behalf of the Ministry of Municipal Affairs. Hemson has an on-going role both in the client support area and as policy analysts for the system. Since the inception of the OPTA system our consultants have played key roles in translating complex and evolving legislation into the user friendly format that most municipalities in Ontario now rely upon.

Assessment Base Management
In these days of constrained budgets it is more important than ever for municipalities to maximize revenues from the property tax base. Hemson has a successful and proven strategy to help achieve this objective through proactively monitoring the assessment process. Hemson’s services include training courses for municipal staff, comprehensive assessment roll reviews and representation of municipalities before the Assessment Review Board.

Vacancy Verification Services
Hemson assists municipalities with vacancy rebate applications by providing a rigorous verification program. Our vacancy verification services range from complete municipal wide audits to specific property reviews. In ratepayer appeals our consultants can provide expert municipal representation before the Assessment Review Board.

Tax Policy Analysis and Support
Hemson has been assisting municipalities to develop property tax policies since the reforms to the assessment and taxation system were introduced in 1997. We provide assistance to treasury staff in preparing capped property billings and in calculating post-billing adjustments as required under taxation legislation. Our training programs are extremely effective in enhancing municipal staff’s knowledge and understanding of taxation and assessment legislation.

For more information about Hemson’s assessment and taxation practice please contact John Hughes at extension 22.