Politics
Thonglor Targets Commercial Property Owners With New Infrastructure Levy
Thonglor households near targeted road segments gain from scheduled maintenance while operators of shops and offices along Thonglor Road and Sukhumvit Soi 55 absorb the new annual charge.
How we reported this
The Thonglor District Administration has placed a local infrastructure levy on the July 20 referendum ballot. The measure would impose an annual charge equal to 0.8 percent of assessed value on commercial properties above 15 million baht to pay for resurfacing of 12 local streets and upkeep of three public plazas.
The referendum arrives after the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration recorded a 38 percent shortfall in routine road maintenance funding for the Thonglor district in its 2025 fiscal report. District officials say the levy would replace one-time central grants that have declined since 2023.
Daily costs and benefits for residents
Homeowners whose properties sit within 300 metres of the listed streets would see crews address potholes and drainage within 18 months if the measure passes. The district list names Soi 51, Soi 53 and the stretch of Ekamai Road between Soi 10 and Soi 14. Tenants in those blocks would continue to pay the same rent, as the charge falls only on the registered commercial owner.
Businesses operating on Thonglor Road and Sukhumvit 55 would receive bills averaging 64,000 baht per year, according to the fiscal impact statement attached to the referendum ordinance. Corner pharmacies, coffee shops and small clinics have told district staff they expect to pass a portion of the cost to customers through modest price adjustments.
Ballot timeline and eligibility
Eligible voters are Thai citizens aged 18 and older who are registered in Thonglor District household records by 30 June. The district office will open three polling stations on 20 July and allow advance voting from 10 to 12 July at the Thonglor Community Hall. Results are scheduled for release the following morning.