In a recent decision, three towns on Long Island have taken steps to provide significant property tax relief for the spouses of fallen police officers. This move stems from a newly passed bill that allows towns to offer considerable discounts on property taxes.
Notably, one town has broadened its support to not just active military personnel in combat zones but also to the spouses of firefighters and paramedics who lost their lives while on duty.
Councilors from Brookhaven, Islip, and Huntington approved a lien on the assets of spouses of police officers who died while serving. This initiative is backed by a new state law enabling tax reductions of up to 50% for residents.
Interestingly, Huntington has extended benefits further by including widows and spouses of injured firefighters and paramedics, along with residents currently on active military duty.
This tax break specifically pertains to the property tax on the primary residence of the deceased spouse. However, residents will still need to cover taxes owed to other local entities unless those groups choose to enact similar measures.
Michelle Holfester expressed gratitude to the Brookhaven City Commission, saying, “On behalf of myself and all the survivors… thank you. We really appreciate it.” Her late husband, NYPD Detective William Holfester, passed away in 2008 from a 9/11-related illness.
The tax cut received endorsement from Islip City Councilman Michael McElwee, who noted the importance of supporting the families of those who made the ultimate sacrifice. “We have to stand back for law enforcement,” he remarked to a reporter, highlighting their commitment to public safety.
McElwee emphasized the significance of recognizing these families, saying, “It’s really important that we do what we can for them.”
These three towns join other Suffolk County municipalities like Riverhead, Smithtown, and Babylon in enacting similar tax breaks. Meanwhile, Nassau County and Oyster Bay are still contemplating similar initiatives.
