Westchester County Executive George Latimer Signs Legislation Providing Tax Exemption for Volunteer Firefighters and Volunteer Ambulance Service Members

Watch full bill signing HERE.

Westchester County Executive George Latimer signed legislation aimed at recognizing and supporting the essential role of volunteer firefighters and ambulance service members. The law creates guidelines for a property tax break for those who serve, have served and their spouse – and lowers the threshold for services from 5 years to 2 years. The law, supported by firefighters in Westchester, passed the Westchester County Board of Legislators unanimously.

Latimer said: “This law recognizes the sacrifices made by our volunteers and provides meaningful support for their service. We are proud to stand behind those who protect our community.”

The key tenets of this new law include:

  • If you're a member of a volunteer fire company, fire department or volunteer ambulance service in Westchester County, along with your spouse, you may be eligible for a tax break of up to 10% on your property taxes for County and special district purposes.
  • To qualify, applicants need to live in the city, town, or village served by the volunteer group, use the property as your main home, and use it only for living. The Department you are a member of needs to confirm that you've been a member for at least two years.
  • If you've been a member for over twenty years, certified by the authority, applicants may get a 10% tax break for life, as long as you live in Westchester County.
  • The law ensures that the spouse of a deceased volunteer firefighter or ambulance worker killed in the line of duty can still get the tax break under certain conditions.
  • Similarly, the spouse of a deceased member who served for at least twenty years can continue to get the tax break if certain conditions are met.

Department of Emergency Services Commissioner Richard Wishnie said: “This law is a testament to the County's commitment to valuing the selfless service of our volunteer firefighters and ambulance service members. It not only acknowledges their sacrifices but also provides a tangible benefit that recognizes the importance of their role in safeguarding our communities.”