Hendrick Hudson board approves partial tax exemption for volunteer first responders

The Hendrick Hudson Central School District Board of Education voted Jan. 20 to adopt a resolution extending a partial real property tax exemption for eligible volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers.

The board opened a public hearing on the proposed exemption and heard public comment from Robert Outhouse, a 45‑year volunteer with the Buchanan Engine Company, who said local governments in the area have already adopted similar exemptions and that the district should act to help recruit and retain volunteers.

After a brief recess the board reconvened, conducted a roll call and approved the resolution. Administration said it will notify town assessors of the adoption and encouraged interested residents to check with their local assessor to confirm eligibility and required paperwork. The presenters reminded the public that the taxable status date applies and that any approved exemption will reduce the school portion of a property tax bill beginning the following tax year.

What residents should know

- The board approved a resolution to extend a partial real property tax exemption for eligible volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers. - Residents who think they may qualify were asked to contact their town assessor; administration said the deadline for applications is typically May 1 and recommended applying early. - Officials noted the exemption would apply to the following year’s school tax bill (not the current bill) because of taxable status date timing.

Quotes

"I am a lifelong volunteer...we need to continue to do something, you know, for the volunteers, and I think this is a great way to do it," said Robert Outhouse during public comment.

Administration said it will "reach out to the town assessor's office and notify them of this adoption of this resolution" and encouraged eligible community members to verify paperwork with their assessor.

Next steps

District staff will contact town assessors to formally notify them of the resolution and provide information to the public on how to apply. The board did not change the application deadlines; staff reiterated that savings typically appear on the subsequent year’s school tax bill.