Manhasset, NY – North Hempstead Supervisor Jon Kaiman, Councilman Robert Troiano, and Receiver of Taxes Rocco Iannarelli announced today that at the May 3^rd Town Board meeting, the North Hempstead Town Council voted unanimously to approve legislation that will increase tax exemptions for volunteer firefighter and ambulance workers.

"Volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers are there everyday to protect our residents," said Supervisor Kaiman.  “This legislation will reduce property taxes for thousands of volunteers and allow us to give something back to those men and women who give so much of themselves towards protecting us."

“This legislation will significantly enhance the exemption benefit under the town's volunteer firefighter and ambulance worker's real property tax exemption,” added Mr. Iannarelli.  “Those individuals who have previously filed and qualified for this exemption for 2005-2006 county and town tax purposes does not need to reapply."

            “The new legislation eliminates a cap on the volunteer firefighter and ambulance worker exemption, effectively increasing the benefit seen by these volunteers,” added Councilman Troiano.

            Requirements for eligibility will continue to remain the same for homeowners under the new enhanced exemption program. Anyone enrolled as a member of an incorporated volunteer fire department, fire company or incorporated voluntary ambulance service for at least five years are eligible.  In addition, property owned jointly by an eligible firefighter or ambulance worker and their spouse also qualifies for the exemption.

            The new legislation will also continue to support those firefighters and ambulance workers who have dedicated their services for more than 20 years, even after they leave volunteer fire and ambulance service. In particular, a person who has been an active enrolled member in one of the abovementioned volunteer services for more than 20 years will be granted a lifetime exemption for as long as he or she maintains a primary residence in North Hempstead.

            Any firefighters or ambulance workers who may be interested in this exemption can contact the North Hempstead Town Receiver of Taxes Office at (516) 869-7800 for more information.