Most New Brunswickers say the property tax system is unfair, confusing and too expensive, according to a new government report.

The provincial government has released the What We Heard report.

It summarizes feedback from more than 7,500 residents and stakeholders on the property tax system.

The consultations included surveys, meetings and input from an advisory panel of local government representatives.

The report says 85 per cent of participants believe property assessments are unfair, while 87 per cent say billing is unfair.

It also found that 80 per cent of respondents struggle to afford property taxes, with many reporting they have cut spending or even considered selling their homes.

Property tax revenue has grown from $1.3 billion in 2016 to $1.7 billion in 2025.

The government explained that growth, along with rising assessments, has added to affordability concerns.

Finance and Treasury Board Minister René Legacy said the feedback will guide the next stages of the review.

“Our government remains committed to overhauling the property tax system to make it predictable, transparent, fair and stable for all New Brunswickers,” Legacy said in a government release.

Local Government Minister Aaron Kennedy, who is also responsible for Service New Brunswick, said the government’s goal is to have improvements in place by the 2027 tax year.

“Reform of the property tax system is not a short‑term project by any means, and we remain committed to our promise to New Brunswickers to take action,” Kennedy said.

The next phase of the review, set for late 2025, will focus on defining challenges and developing solutions.

Implementation, including legislative and policy changes, is planned for 2026 and 2027.