The 2-percent property tax levy cap will be extended through 2020, under an end-of-session deal announced this afternoon by Gov. Andrew Cuomo, Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie and Senate leader John Flanagan.
The agreement, announced as the 2015 legislative session grinds to a close, deals with several major pieces of legislation, including the extension of rent-control regulations through 2019 and a four-year extension of the controversial 421-a affordable housing program.
Details of the agreement were sparse as the announcement came at the state capitol this afternoon.
A spokesperson for State Sen. Ken LaValle said his counsel confirmed that the property tax levy cap extension was part of the deal, but stressed that the senator — and the entire conference — had not yet seen a draft bill.
The tax cap, originally passed as part of the same end-of-session bill as the 421-a program five years ago, was set to expire this month along with the 421-a program.
LaValle has been an ardent proponent of the cap and fought for its extension.
In an interview last month, LaValle said the property tax cap has been “a huge success.” State education aid has been increased to make up the difference he said.
“Either none or very few school districts have suffered. There have been very few layoffs. Education has not been harmed,” the senator said.
The cap was controversial went it was passed in June 2011. School boards and administrators have struggled with funding programs and meeting obligations under existing collective bargaining agreements as well as other costs beyond their control such as health insurance.
Editor’s note: This article has been amended to reflect new information regarding the 421-a affordable housing program contained in a second press release issued by the governor’s office.
The survival of local journalism depends on your support.
We are a small family-owned operation. You rely on us to stay informed, and we depend on you to make our work possible. Just a few dollars can help us continue to bring this important service to our community.
Support RiverheadLOCAL today.