Schuyler makes pre-payment possible

WATKINS GLEN--Schuyler County officials tried to help property owners who itemize their deductions pre-pay 2018 property taxes in the hope residents can receive benefits before restrictions take effect under the new federal tax law.
In late December, Gov. Andrew Cuomo issued an executive order relative to tax payments made in 2017 for 2018 tax bills. According to state officials, the order authorizes local governments to immediately issue tax warrants for the collection of 2018 property tax payments and allows property owners to pay their tax bill before the end of the year and under the current tax rules.
In consideration of this news, and to allow Schuyler County taxpayers the chance to take advantage of potential future tax benefits, Dennis Fagan, the Chairman of the Schuyler County Legislature, signed the warrant effective Thursday, Dec. 28. Each town tax collector was then authorized to accept payments of warranted taxes from property owners until the close of business Friday, Dec. 29, 2017.
Property owners are required to pay their property taxes at the town level through town tax collectors. The county only accepts payments after April 15.
County Administrator Tim O'Hearn said Friday, Dec. 29 the phones were busy most of the day with county personnel answering questions about the pre-payment option.