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City staff: new state law makes 100% disabled-veteran property-tax exemption mandatory; veterans must apply
Summary
Nick summarized a December law and a Feb. 13 amendment that require taxing jurisdictions to implement a full property-tax exemption for primary residences of veterans with a 100% service-connected disability. Nick said the exemption is mandatory but only effective on the next assessment roll; veterans must apply to claim it.
Nick, a city staff member, briefed the council on a change in state law affecting property-tax exemptions for veterans. He said the state passed a law in December 2025 that provided a full property-tax exemption for primary residences of veterans with a 100% service-connected disability; a February 13 amendment made the provision mandatory for taxing jurisdictions rather than optional.
Nick told the council the city does not need to adopt a local law: "It is now mandatory, and there's no requirement for any taxing jurisdiction to take any action," he said. He also clarified the timing: the exemption will not take effect until the next assessment roll cycle — applicable to school taxes in 2027 and city taxes in 2028 — and that veterans must apply and demonstrate that they satisfy the statutory criteria. Nick said the assessor’s office (Kathy Martin) is aware of the change and can help applicants complete forms.
Councilors asked whether veterans would be automatically enrolled or need to apply; Nick confirmed they must apply and that the city’s memo included a link to the state form and guidance. Staff offered to help publicize the change so eligible residents know to apply.
