In a heated parliamentary debate on Thursday, Opposition MP Sherfield Bowen vehemently criticized the Tax Administration and Procedure (Amendment) Bill 2025, labeling it as ‘draconian’ for granting the government excessive powers to seize and sell private property over unpaid taxes. Representing St. Philip’s South, Bowen argued that the bill, ostensibly designed to address derelict and abandoned properties, could unfairly penalize homeowners who fall behind on tax payments, even by a single installment. He emphasized that the legislation lacks a crucial precondition: the property must be officially declared derelict or abandoned before any sale is considered. Bowen proposed several amendments to ensure fairness, including a mandatory five-year period of government-maintained property cleaning and maintenance, with costs charged to the land, before any sale is pursued. He also objected to the bill’s provision allowing tax collection after a mere 30-day notice, deeming it unreasonable and advocating for a more extended grace period of at least one year. Additionally, Bowen called for multiple written notices and personal service to homeowners before enforcement actions are taken. Despite his impassioned arguments and calls for stronger homeowner protections, the bill passed later that day with government support.
VIDEO: Bowen Calls Property Tax Bill ‘Draconian,’ Urges Safeguards for Homeowners
