Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins is proposing legislation that would expand the County’s tax exemption for volunteer firefighters and ambulance service members. This initiative would ensure that all volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers residing in Westchester are eligible for a 10% County property tax exemption, regardless of the location of their volunteer service.
Jenkins said: “Volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers are the backbone of our emergency services, selflessly dedicating their time and energy to keeping our communities safe. We deeply value and appreciate their bravery and commitment every single day. By expanding the tax exemption to include those serving anywhere within Westchester County, we aim to support their efforts, enhance recruitment, and retain these essential volunteers.”
Under the current law, volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers with at least two years of service are eligible for a 10% County property tax exemption, if they serve in the municipality where they reside. The proposed amendment aligns with recent changes to the New York State Real Property Tax Law, allowing the exemption to extend to volunteers serving in neighboring municipalities within the County.
Commissioner of the Westchester County Department of Emergency Services Susan Spear said: “We thank County Executive Ken Jenkins for his leadership and his support for Westchester’s Fire and EMS volunteers. This legislation creates an important recruitment and retention opportunity for volunteer departments. It also creates an important public benefit since our dedicated Fire and EMS volunteers provide a significant savings in property taxpayer dollars. As both a taxpayer savings and in appreciation for the service our Fire and EMS volunteers provide to communities throughout Westchester, this legislation will create an important benefit.”
Vice President of the Westchester County Volunteer Firefighter’s Association Martin Gunther said: “The tax break will not only support our pursuit of recruitment and retention, but will also positively impact the lives of our volunteers, both firefighters and EMS alike.”
Public Information Officer, Ardsley Secor Volunteer Ambulance, and County EMS Advisory Board member Steven Greenfeld said: “Westchester County’s on-going support of volunteer first responders strengthens our public safety and our communities. These programs recognize and reward the commitment and sacrifice that volunteers make for our neighbors every day. Thank you County Executive Ken Jenkins, and all in your administration, for your foresight and effort to protect our volunteer spirit.”