Owners of heritage buildings in Portage are closer to having a tax credit program for upgrading their property.

First reading has been given to a by-law allowing for a property tax credit of up to $500.00 a year for ten years to a maximum of half the work done.

It was requested last month by the Portage Heritage Committee. Councillor Dave Quinn feels they City's doing something worthwhile because it isn't a financial burden, while heritage properties are maintained and improved.

Quinn isn't concerned the City will lose significant revenue. They don't expect more than two applications a year, resulting in $1000.00 in tax credits. He adds only a small group of people own heritage properties.