Salem traders threaten three-day shutdown over property tax hike

The Salem All Traders' Association has threatened a three-day shop closure if the Salem corporation fails to withdraw what it calls a steeply increased property tax within a week. Traders allege that commercial establishments have been burdened with disproportionately high taxes, with some facing demands several times higher than the rent generated from their properties.

Property tax within Salem corporation limits was revised sharply in 2022, according to the association, which says it has repeatedly demanded the hike be withdrawn. A resolution was passed at a corporation council meeting and sent to the government, and traders were earlier advised to continue paying the old tax amount until further orders were issued. The association says that after a change in administration, the situation changed, though further details were not provided in the report. The corporation has not yet publicly responded to the latest threat.