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Town of Rye unveils redesigned website; staff review programs, tax receivables and payments
Summary
Staff previewed a redesigned town website and described plans for a mobile app; financial staff reported low tax receivables, upcoming audit timelines, and seven properties facing in‑rem proceedings with a May 18 court date.
Town staff presented the Town of Rye’s redesigned website and an accompanying mobile app update during the March 20 council meeting. Ruby Tower (speaker 14) described the homepage, bilingual text‑message widget, quick links, consolidated meetings and events pages, permit portal, and a department contact structure intended to make forms and services easier for residents to find.
The presenters said the mobile app is ready but delayed by new Apple App Store requirements; the website itself is mobile‑optimized and ready to go live. Staff demonstrated a meetings section with easy links to council and park commission meetings, an events calendar organized by department, and an upcoming permit portal for Rytown Park.
On financial reports, staff said tax receivables are low (about one‑half of 1% of levies) and audit fieldwork is complete, with draft reports expected in April and a May presentation planned. Town attorney Jeff Binder (speaker 13) and staff reported seven properties scheduled for in‑rem with a redemption/court date on May 18; the attorney urged property owners to contact his office to resolve unpaid taxes.
Receiver of Taxes Carla (speaker 5) briefed the council on payment options and timelines: county/town tax bills will print and mail in the first week of April; residents can pay online (ACH recommended, $1.50 fee per transaction), mail to 222 Grey Street (do not use the former TD lockbox in New Jersey), use an in‑person drop box, or pay in person. Credit card payments incur a 2.35% fee.
Why it matters: The new website and improved online services aim to reduce staff workload and make town services more accessible. The financial updates provide residents with deadlines and options for avoiding in‑rem proceedings.
What’s next: Staff will launch the website (riottownny.gov) when final checks are complete and continue to coordinate the app release pending App Store approval; staff will notify residents when bills are mailed and publicize payment options.
