2007 NYSAC Press Releases
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County and State Officials Partner to Help New Yorkers
Receive Property Tax Relief
September 27, 2007
New York’s property tax rebate program was the focus of a Web-based seminar today hosted by the New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC) and the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance.
More than 100 officials from 45 counties logged on through the Internet to learn how they can help their constituents apply for the Middle Class STAR Property Tax rebate enacted by Governor Eliot Spitzer and State legislators earlier this year.
“As county officials, we are on the front lines of government. We see the impact that high property taxes have on our communities and families,” said Stephen J. Acquario, NYSAC executive director. “In the past five years, real property taxes have increased 42 percent—three and a half times faster than wages in the same time period. High property taxes have driven New York’s overall state and local tax burden to the highest in the nation, 72 percent above the national average. Clearly, our tax structure is not competitive nationally, and more needs to be done to relieve this burden on our homeowners and our businesses.”
The Webinar was designed to inform local officials of this program and to assist the Tax Department’s efforts to contact homeowners. The state recently mailed notice to 2.7 million property owners across New York State, inviting them to apply for their Middle Class STAR Property Tax Rebate. Unlike the previous rebate program, homeowners must file an application to receive their rebate.
“Our goal is to have all 2.7 million eligible property owners apply for and receive their property tax rebate. Partnership seminars like the one held today with counties help us broaden our efforts to reach as many New Yorkers as we can in this program,” said Barbara G. Billet, acting commissioner of the Department of Taxation and Finance.
“County officials have been receiving questions about the STAR Rebate Program. State and local officials need to make sure everyone that is eligible receives their rebate,” said NYSAC President Lucille M. McKnight. “NYSAC has been working to build and strengthen partnerships with state agencies in order to support and improve the programs and services we deliver in communities across the state. This is a prime example of how these partnerships are working for New Yorkers.”
The New York State Association of Counties is a bipartisan municipal association serving all 62 counties of New York State including the City of New York. Organized in 1925, NYSAC’s mission is to represent, educate and advocate for member counties and the thousands of elected and appointed county officials who serve the public.
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Media Questions
For more information about NYSAC, our advocacy efforts or specific reporter requests or questions, contact Mark LaVigne or call NYSAC at 518-465-1473.
2007 Press Releases
- Albany County Executive Michael Breslin Receives Excellence in Leadership Award--June 20, 2007
- NYSAC to Host Municipal Energy Coalition's Bid Opening for Renewable Energy Credits-- June 19, 2007