On April 2nd, the Observatoire du développement de l'Outaouais (ODO) released a citizen-led study titled « Estimation du nombre de logements dans les districts du Plateau et du nord de Mitigomijokan occupés par des Ontariens et impacts économiques » (in French only). The purpose of this research is to better understand the extent of tax avoidance in these rapidly growing areas of Gatineau, using a new indicator based on the anonymous counting of license plates during nighttime hours.
Over 13,000 license plates were recorded and categorized across three types of dwellings: single-family homes, small multiplexes, and large multiplexes. The results reveal that approximately 13.6% of dwellings in the Plateau and northern Mitigomijokan could be occupied by residents who declare their taxes in Ontario. This rate varies depending on the type of housing: 5.5% for single-family homes, 15.4% for small multiplexes, and 25.9% for large multiplexes. The highest concentrations are observed in the more recently developed areas of the Plateau.
Although the economic data presented in the report is for informational purposes only, it outlines hypothetical yet plausible scenarios regarding the potential tax revenues lost to the government--and indirectly to the City of Gatineau--if a significant number of Gatineau residents with Ontario license plates were unjustifiably paying their taxes in Ontario.
These findings highlight the importance of continuing research, refining the indicators, and better understanding the motivations behind residential choices that carry significant fiscal implications.
To learn more (in French only):
⤷ Read the full study: https://shorturl.at/FMOXr
⤷ Access the summary version: https://shorturl.at/MViXp
