Councilmember Christopher Fisher City of Tonawanda 2nd Ward

  As a disabled veteran himself, Chris fights to ensure veterans get every benefit they are entitled to. Chris said, “It was an honor to sponsor and pass legislation that provides meaningful property tax relief to our permanently and totally disabled military veterans. Our democracy, values, and freedom are secured by the brave individuals who wear or have worn our nation’s uniform. Tragically, some service members sustain injuries that permanently prevent them from reentering the workforce. Through this local law, when the Department of Veterans Affairs certifies a veteran as permanently and totally disabled, the City of Tonawanda will exempt them from city property taxes. I strongly encourage Erie County and the local school district to enact similar measures. I am proud to have delivered on this promise to our city. Supporting our veterans is not a partisan matter; it is a fundamental American duty.”

  I OPPOSE Overriding the Tax Cap! We should not be adopting a budget that is unfair to tax payers.   What is the Real Property Tax Cap? With some exceptions, the State’s Property Tax Cap limits the amount local governments and most school districts can increase the tax levy (the total amount of property taxes billed) to the lower of two percent or the rate of inflation. (Individual property tax bills are based on various factors, and they may increase more than two percent.) Local governments, citizens and the Office of the New York State Comptroller (OSC) play important roles in the process. Local governments, libraries, schools (except New York City) and fire districts must report to OSC: the information necessary to calculate their tax levy limit; and, whether they plan to stay within the Tax Cap. Local government boards must pass a local law or resolution by at least a 60 percent vote to override the Tax Cap. Counties, cities and villages are already subject...