Tax Cap Passes, Residents React

The state Legislature passed a bill on Friday that places a cap on local tax levies.

In response to complaints about the state's high taxes, the legislature voted to limit how much rates can increase from year to year. Championed by Gov. Andrew Cuomo, the cap is meant to hold the line on school property taxes at two percent or at the level of the Consumer Price Index (CPI), whichever is less.

said he applauds the governor and legislature in their efforts to control property taxes.

"Moving forward, it is imperative that this legislation is accompanied by real relief from state and federal mandates, so that the local taxpayer is alleviated from the unnecessary costs that are shifted onto local school districts,”  Laria said. “In Glen Cove, we have created new operating efficiencies within our budget in preparation for the tax cap and we will continue to explore new ways to contain spending without compromising the quality of education that we provide for our students.”

Resident and business owner Rick Smith says he's skeptical about the cap.

"I don't believe there's any way to really enforce it," said Smith, owner of the on School Street. "It's more political than practical."

Smith – who said he doesn't believe there should be a property tax to begin with – questioned whether the cap includes tax certiorari.

"From what I've seen, there are enough loopholes to drive an MTA train through," Smith said. "I'll believe it when I see it."

: Should New York State cap property tax rates?

Below are some opinions Patch received from readers.

– "Absolutely. It is my opinion that each and every public school district on Long Island, to a greater or lesser extent, is engaged in criminality involving taxpayer funds, and is one good forensic audit from getting busted. I believe that the bill put forth in January, and passed by the Senate, is the one that should be signed into law."

– "I ran into an old friend last week; he moved to South Carolina, right outside of Hilton Head. He has a 3,000 square foot house in a gated/golf course community, five bedrooms, four bathrooms, built in pool, his property taxes are $1,600 a year. We're doing something wrong."

– "No way! We are having to buy bricks to pay for a playground at Landing school while the wealthy enjoy their country clubs. How about a tax on Country Club memberships, or an INCREASE on the wealthiest one percent? That would help everyone and cost them practically nothing. As long as politicians are in bed with the wealthiest 1%, there will be no change from Democrats or Republicans."

– "Think that we need to cap spending first. If taxes are capped then we face the increasing deficits which brings us back to a situation where taxes will just hiked to cover the deficit. Figure out what it 'really costs' to run the city and if the revenue generated from taxes and subsidies can cover that then approve the activity. If not then seek alternative funding (private partnerships?), cut the program completely or justify a tax increase and have it passed.