Some N.S. homeowners living in flood zones had property assessments increased

Residents who are still grappling with the aftermath of the floods that struck Union Street in Bedford, N.S., on July 21, 2023 received notice this week that their property assessments went up.

Residents who are still grappling with the aftermath of the floods that struck Union Street in Bedford, N.S., on July 21, 2023 received notice this week that their property assessments went up.

Grayling Cornelius received his assessment in the mail on Thursday. He said the capped value increased from $7000 to $8000.

“The assessed value increased by $40,000,” says Cornelius.

Part of his house after the July floods is not liveable and Cornelius said selling it would be difficult. He is also expecting to pay up to 3.2 per cent more on property tax. While he knew the assessment was coming, he did not expect to see an increase.

He feels defeated.

“I could sit down and cry right now but I don’t see the point in it. You know, crying over spilled milk. I’ve been flooded twice (and) it’s going to happen again unless the province or federal can help us on Union Street,” he says.

Since the floods, Cornelius has been trying to rebuild. He already put $60,000 into insulating the basement after having to rip apart the walls because they were covered in mold and mildew. He only has another $30,000 left but it is still not enough to complete half the job.