P.C. school board considers tax breaks for first responders

Following in the footsteps of New York State and other municipalities, the Port Chester School District has begun the conversation of offering a tax exemption to volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers living within its jurisdiction.

At the Board of Education meeting on Thursday, Dec. 14, Trustee George Ford proposed that a resolution be drafted to offer homeowners who volunteer as firefighters or in EMS/EMT corps a reduction in their school tax. While nothing has been formally proposed, it would likely reflect the law enacted by both Westchester County earlier that same day and the Village of Port Chester in February.

The law could grant a discount to eligible homeowners of up to 10% if the district follows the template used by the state and county. The district may, however, elect to use a lower number.

“It’s our local law,” Ford said. “We could tailor that law to fit what we feel is the right move.” He was met with general agreement from his peers.

“I hear what you’re saying, and I think we should consider it,” Board of Education President Lou Russo said.

The tax exemption wouldn’t cause the district to lose any money, something Ford was quick to point out, but it would imply a burden on other taxpayers. Non-volunteers would see a yet-to-be-determined increase in their school tax bills to make up for the difference.

Ford expressed urgency on the matter, stating eligible volunteers would have until May 1 to apply for the exemption. Additionally, the New York State law set a deadline for Dec. 9, 2025, for municipalities to adopt it.

Assistant Superintendent for Business Philip Silano stated that the earliest the district could enact the measure would be February, after a public hearing is opened to allow those who live in the district to comment.

“We’re all in agreement,” Russo said. “We should have something prepared for January.”