The Syracuse City Board of Assessment Review convened on February 24, 2025, to address a significant property assessment issue involving Syracuse University’s Schein Student Center. The meeting, led by Joe Seia, included a roll call of participants and a review of the property’s current assessed value, which stands at $18.9 million, with a land value of $1.14 million.

The primary focus of the meeting was the ongoing litigation concerning the tax-exempt status of the Schein Student Center, which has been contested since 2022. The property, which underwent substantial renovations between 2019 and 2021, had previously been entirely exempt from taxes since its opening in 1985. However, following the renovations, approximately 8% of the property’s assessment was deemed not tax-exempt, specifically due to the food court and campus store areas, which were argued to be integral to the university's nonprofit mission.

Representatives from Syracuse University, including Mark McNamara and Joe Feder, defended the exemption status, asserting that the food court and campus store primarily serve students, faculty, and visitors, despite being open to the public. They emphasized that all operations within the Schein Student Center are managed by the university, with no external franchise involvement beyond contractual agreements.

The board discussed the implications of the renovations and the recent conversion of part of the campus store into an esports and gaming center, which opened in December 2024. The university reported costs associated with these improvements, further complicating the assessment discussions.

As the board continues to deliberate on the matter, the outcome of the litigation remains pending, with a decision expected from Judge Neri. The case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by educational institutions regarding property tax assessments and exemptions, particularly in light of operational changes and renovations. The board's decision will have significant implications for Syracuse University and its financial obligations moving forward.