HST: How Do You Like It So Far?

It’s been just over a year since the Harmonized Sales Tax took effect in British Columbia and Ontario.

It’s no secret that the HST caused quite an uproar in B.C. and it will be an election issue in Ontario when that province goes to the polls later this year.

Of course, the politicians will tell you that the HST is good for business, but is that really the case overall and specifically, in the golf industry?

Golf businesses in B.C. and Ontario have now had a full year to decide what effect the HST is having on their operations, but this week’s GNN Poll is not exclusively for the people in the golf industry in the affected provinces.

Personally, I believe the HST will come in one form or another to all provinces as governments seek new sources of revenue. What could be happening is that governments are currently waiting for the dust to settle in Ontario and B.C. in order to test public sentiment before putting the HST into effect elsewhere.

So, for those not yet affected by the HST, the question is for you too. What effect will the HST have on your business if it does come to your province?

Be sure to cast your vote, but this is a discussion, as well.

For affected private clubs, did the HST cause anyone to not renew their memberships or in the case of public courses, did you notice any significant decrease in rounds after July 1, 2010, when the HST first kicked in? Have any or your members/public golfers been talking about it and, if so, what are they saying?

What’s the effect on retail, both green grass and off-course? Is its impact felt in your food and beverage sales? For those of you in areas not yet affected by the HST, do you believe it is coming your way or do you expect to be left alone after all the criticism this tax has already taken?

So, let’s make this a discussion as much as a poll. Tee it up and let’s also hear your thoughts, which you can put in the Comments box below this blog.

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About Ian Hutchinson

'Hutch' is a veteran Canadian golf writer, whose history in the game includes an extensive background with Canadian golf trade publications. Hutch is also a regular contributor to publications and websites in Canada and the United States.