As live music scene revs back up after two years of COVID-19 restrictions, Mayor John Tory announced Monday that Toronto will lower property taxes permanently for eligible concert venues in the city.
During a news conference at a live music venue and bar in the west end, Baby G, Tory discussed the opening and reopening of Toronto venues such as Massey Hall, El Mocambo, and newer spaces History and Café Pamenar. The mayor encouraged Torontonians to attend shows in the city and show support to the venues.
“We need to people to get out there and do that starting now,” Mayor Tory said.
“These venues are open now. They have expenses now, they always have. And they have musical acts on now. And they need people to buy the tickets, buy the drinks and be supportive.”
Tory said the decision was made in order to prevent more live music venues from shuttering.
“The assessment on some of those buildings was going up high because it was assumed they would all be turned into condos, which we don’t want, but that caused the taxes to go up and that in turn made it almost impossible for a music venue to exist,” he said.
Tory said that back in 2020, the city council reduced property taxes for music venues to show support for the live music industry during the pandemic’s first year. Benefits were received by 48 venues in 2020 and 58 venues in 2021, with an average savings of $18,995 according to the city.
According to Tory, eligible live music venues in Toronto have collectively saved $1.7 million per year via the tax break.
