Hanover to proceed with firefighter tax exemption
Trending
HANOVER -- A crowd gathered in the hallway of the Hanover Town Court before a recent meeting of the Town Board in anticipation of a discussion regarding a matter of significance for local first responders.
More than 20 guests were in attendance at a recent public hearing held by the Hanover Town Board to discuss a property tax exemption for firefighters who live in the municipality they serve. That designation applied to the majority of the audience.
Hanover Town Assessor Jeanne Ebersole discussed the exemption and the importance of the Town's gesture to pursue it as an option for its volunteers at the recent meeting.
"I think that it is a great thing that the Town Board is going to put this exemption in place. I think that it shows our volunteers – the men and women that dedicate all their time to emergency services – that we think that they have value and that they are important," Ebersole said.
The property tax exemption would apply to 10% of the equalized assessed value of the property of firefighters who live in the town in which they serve as a volunteer firefighter. The exemption cannot be combined with other exemptions.
"I think that it's really important to make sure that you do the math first before you decide what you're going to do," Ebersole said.
The Town Board did not take official action on the matter, but Town Supervisor Lou Pelletter stated a resolution will be on the agenda at the next regular meeting of the Town Board. On behalf of the Board, Deputy Supervisor Bernie Feldmann stated, "This Board is wholly in favor of it."
While no official action was taken on the exemption, the Town Board did act on other items on the agenda. Kathleen Tempski was appointed as a Court Clerk at a rate of $19 per hour, effective Jan. 29. Tempski, who was in attendance, has experience as a Deputy Court Clerk in the Town of Sheridan.
Town Justice James McGowan spoke before Tempski's appointment to credit the Board for its assistance through a transition period, as Town Justice Philip Hall resigned from his role and Court Clerk Elizabeth VanCheri assumed the role of Town Clerk.
"I want to thank the Board for its diligent efforts in helping us through the transition period," McGowan said. "... You've been very diligent in addressing our needs."
Colleen Kim Woodward was also appointed to the Zoning Board of Appeals in place of Paul Rociewicz, with a term expiring Dec. 31, 2028; while Cynthia Sheedy and Carole DePasquale were appointed to one-year terms to serve on the Board of Ethics.
Resignations were accepted from Christopher Manning, Planning Board member, and Ernest Frommer, Boat Launch employee, retroactively to their final date of service to the Town.
Deputy Town Clerks Hazel Deet and Lorry Schneider were amended from salaried employees to hourly employees, at the same rate of pay, to allow for overtime compensation, as needed.
Also at the recent meeting, Town Clerk Elizabeth VanCheri recognized Rob Weiskerger for 25 years of service to the Town. Weiskerger, who is a volunteer fireman and Coordinating Director of Disaster for the Town, said, "It's been a great ride. I don't know how it happened upon 25 years already, but I've worked with some great people; great board members, great community members, and (I've had) a lot of support."
Town Councilman Ed Schintzius is also in discussions with Forestville and Silver Creek schools regarding students who wish to serve as lifeguards for the Town over the summer. Training will be held at Silver Creek Central School in April and May.
Town Councilwoman Aimee Rogers also noted the Town is seeking recommendations of businesses who have been in operation for 50 years or more in the Town of Hanover or the Village of Silver Creek to receive recognition through the New York State Historic Preservation Office. Senator George Borrello will assist in the process.
"It's a really great idea to recognize these businesses that are staying within our community," Rogers said. She urged residents to contact her to submit their nominations.