To the editor:

Recently passed legislation allows local governments to carry over Senior Citizens’ Exemptions from the 2020 assessment roll to the 2021 assessment roll at the same levels. This means that seniors in New York state DO NOT have to reapply for the exemption UNLESS their 2019 income would make them eligible for a larger exemption in 2021.

The purpose of the law is to protect our most vulnerable citizens during COVID-19 since many seniors prefer to reapply in person. If you have already submitted a renewal application for the exemption, assessors will determine which income tax year provides the larger exemption.

Additionally, if you are turning 65 years of age during the 2021 calendar year, the property is your primary residence and you meet specific income criteria, you may qualify for the Senior Citizens or Enhanced STAR exemptions.

Seniors in the town of North Elba should contact our exemption coordinator, Deborah Mueller at 518-523-1975 by the deadline of March 1 to have your income evaluated. (Senior citizens in other municipalities, please contact your local assessor.) We will provide applications by mail or electronically so that it is unnecessary to appear in person.

Sincerely,

Todd Anthony, assessor

Town of North Elba

Lake Placid