Four Measures Provide Targeted Tax Relief in Recognition of Service and Sacrifice
On Sept. 14, the Westchester County Board of Legislators unanimously approved four measures providing County property tax relief. The exemptions benefit surviving spouses of first responders who died in the line of duty, active-duty military members serving in combat zones, and veterans with serious disabilities resulting from their service.
Chairman Vedat Gashi (D–New Castle, Ossining, Somers, Yorktown) said, “Those who serve our communities and our country, and the families who stand beside them, make extraordinary sacrifices. These exemptions are a meaningful way for Westchester County to recognize that service while providing practical financial relief. I am proud that the full Board came together to support these local heroes and their families.”
The exemptions will apply to assessment rolls with taxable status dates on or after October 1, 2026. Property owners must apply through their local assessor and meet applicable eligibility requirements.
The four measures provide:
- Surviving spouses of police officers killed in the line of duty: A 50% exemption on the assessed value of their primary residence for County property tax purposes.
- Surviving spouses of volunteer firefighters and volunteer ambulance service members who died in the line of duty: A 50% exemption from County taxation on qualifying real property.
- Active-duty military members serving in combat zones: A 25% exemption on the assessed value of their primary residence.
- Veterans with serious disabilities resulting from their service: A full County property tax exemption on their qualifying primary residence.
Legislator Colin D. Smith (D–Cortlandt, Peekskill, Yorktown), Chair of the Board’s Legislation Committee, said, “Honoring service requires more than words; it requires meaningful action to support the people and families who have made extraordinary sacrifices on behalf of our country and our communities. I was proud to help advance this package through the Legislation Committee and to support its unanimous passage by the Board.”
Legislator Tyrae Woodson-Samuels (D–Mount Vernon), Chair of the Board’s Budget and Appropriations Committee, said, “These exemptions reflect our values as a County—standing with those who serve and protecting the families of those who made the ultimate sacrifice. As Budget Chair, I’m proud we can provide meaningful property tax relief to our veterans, active-duty service members, first responders and their families while honoring their service to our communities.”
Legislator David J. Tubiolo (D–Yonkers, Mount Vernon), Chair of the Board’s Public Safety and Veterans Committee, said, “I am proud to support these four important legislative items providing meaningful property tax relief to those who have sacrificed and served our communities and nation. These exemptions are more than financial assistance; they are a tangible expression of our gratitude and our commitment to standing behind our service members, veterans, first responders and their families. Westchester County has a proud tradition of honoring those who protect and serve, and I will continue advocating for policies that recognize their sacrifices and provide meaningful support when they need it most.”
A replay of Monday night’s Board meeting will be available here.