Dear editor,
On behalf of HI Jasper, I would like to provide some context to a recent Fitzhugh article “Out of the backcountry, into the fire” published Thursday, July 18.
As Mayor Ireland correctly states, Hostelling International (HI) hostels are recognized by the Province of Alberta as a not-for-profit organization and are exempt from municipal taxation pursuant to provincial legislation. However, contrary to reports, we were never notified by the Town of Jasper that our tax-exempt status would be reviewed and a new tax by-law proposed to town council.
In April 2018, our email records show that HI requested information on whether our land lease fell under the municipality or Parks Canada. A brief response from town administration stated that “the land lease for the new hostel would come under the annual municipal property taxes”. This email response made no mention of any plans to review our tax-exempt status.
HI learned of the draft taxation by-law and plans for an accelerated reading of the draft by-law through this paper.
With the investment of a new hostel in Jasper, a project that was developed in consultation with the town, Parks Canada and with the area’s housing needs in mind, HI is strengthening its commitment to Jasper and have goals that go beyond just heads in beds.
As the new neighbour in town, Hostelling International welcomes the opportunity to have an open discussion with administrators and council members on how our organization can support Jasper, its residents and visitors. We are committed to the town and aim to be an active and engaged community partner.
Sincerely
Alistair McLean, CEO
Hostelling International
Canada Pacific Mountain Region
