A community improvement charge (or similar local improvement levy) is a property tax mechanism where property owners in a defined area pay an additional charge to fund improvements benefiting that specific area. Projects might include streetscape enhancements, sidewalk upgrades, or neighbourhood infrastructure that primarily benefits local properties. Unlike general taxes that fund city-wide services, community improvement charges connect payment to direct benefit—those whose properties will appreciate from improvements contribute to the cost. Such charges typically require processes demonstrating support from affected property owners. Community improvement charges allow neighbourhoods to fund enhancements they prioritize without relying on city-wide tax support.