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While Calgary councillors struggle to find ways to ease a climbing tax burden, particularly on businesses, Chestermere has reduced taxes for residents by two per cent.

“Pardon my expression, but we tightened our belts,” said Coun. Mel Foat of Chestermere.

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“We are doing something that is maybe long overdue — we are listening to the people.”

Foat said council in the city east of Calgary went from what would have been a 14 per cent increase in taxes to a two per cent reduction, after conducting a review of city services and finding areas to cut spending or delay projects.

The result of the review included holding some parks and recreation proposals, and decreasing administration costs. Chestermere’s 2019 tax rate passed May 21.

Chestermere’s council also chose to implement a three-year tax-free incentive program to attract new business to the city.

In comparison, Calgary’s municipal representatives approved a 3.45 per cent hike for residential property taxes this year.