Low-income seniors in Tompkins County will see a bigger break on their property taxes after lawmakers expanded an exemption, according to The Ithaca Voice.
The Tompkins County Legislature voted 15-1 to raise the maximum county tax discount from 50% to 65% for eligible homeowners age 65 and older earning up to $33,500 a year. Supporters said the change will help older residents stay in their homes as food, energy and housing costs climb.
Officials estimate the move will add about $2.36 to the county tax bill for a median-priced home. Some lawmakers noted the exemption shifts the tax burden to other property owners, but a majority said the relief outweighs the cost.
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