Unit Tax Analyst

Role Overview

• Under the general direction of the Supervisor, Vacant Unit Tax, this position is responsible for administering the processing of the Vacant Unit Tax Program.
• Liaise with the Taxation Division in the preparation of the billing of the tax.
• Responsible for the administration of the business applications related to the Vacant Unit Tax program.
• Handles personal and confidential financial information.
• Identify properties eligible for the Vacant Unit Tax.
• Ensure that identified properties are billed accordingly in coordination with the Taxation section.
• Receive and answer inquiries from staff, the public, government agencies, tax consultants and lawyers.
• Provide support, information and advice to customers and staff on complicated tax accounts.
• Complete the necessary tasks and handling inquiries pertaining to the declarations of the Vacant Unit Tax.
• Analyze and resolve concerns and inquiries from property owners and/or applicants pertaining to the Vacant Unit Tax program.
• Co-ordinate discussions with the applicable parties in attempt to reach an appropriate resolution.
• Receive, review and ensure that complaints and appeals submitted by taxpayers meet established criteria, include adequate information and applicable supporting documentation.
• Assist in evaluation of the Vacant Unit Tax program administration and complaint process.
• Provide guidance and oversight to staff to identify, assess, evaluate and recommend improvements and in streamlining processes.
• Assist in the implementation of necessary changes and/or improvements.
• Monitor and track financial impacts of the Vacant Unit Tax program and prepare statistical analysis and reports.
• Assist with preparation of accurate, timely, strategic reports, presentations and materials for senior management and Council.
• Calculate adjustments for all approved complaint applications or as a result of assessment appeals in a timely and efficient manner while ensuring completion of any required adjustments for penalty and interest, refunds, etc.
• Review and report on Legislative changes and the impact on the administration of the program.
• Prepare the By-Laws related to the Vacant Unit Tax Program for approval by Council.
• Responsible for preparing and/or coordinating all the communication material related to the program.

Requirements

• Demonstrated knowledge of business accounting normally acquired by attaining a Community College diploma in a Business, Accounting, Business Administration program or an equivalent combination of education and work-related experience.
• Demonstrated thorough working knowledge and experience in the application and interpretation of Property Tax & Assessment Legislation and Municipal By-laws as it pertains to Municipal Act appeals and property tax rebate programs.
• Experience and proficiency in a computerized environment with working knowledge of Word, Excel and database software.
• Ability to input data at an acceptable speed and to manipulate data within excel spreadsheets.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience working with a property tax billing system and an accounting software system within a computerized environment is preferred.
• A demonstrated ability to calculate property tax adjustments would be an asset.
• Strong customer service, interpersonal, consultative, problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Ability to deal courteously and effectively with the general public, staff, other levels of government and elected officials in potentially contentious situations.
• Ability to handle complaints.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Ability to multi-task in order to meet legislative deadlines and work with minimal supervision.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.