NEW CITY, NY— Clarkstown officials are moving forward with a plan to extend property tax relief to police auxiliary volunteers, a step that would make the town the first in Rockland County to offer such a benefit.
Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann and the Clarkstown Town Board authorized the measure following the enactment of new state legislation allowing municipalities to grant a real property tax exemption of up to 10 percent on the assessed value of a primary residence owned by an auxiliary police volunteer. The legislation mirrors a 2024 amendment to New York State Real Property Tax Law that permitted similar exemptions for volunteer firefighters and emergency medical service personnel.
Under the proposed local law, Clarkstown would offer the maximum 10 percent exemption allowed by the state to eligible auxiliary police officers. Town officials said the measure reflects the same benefit already extended to volunteer firefighters and EMS members.
Auxiliary police officers assist the Clarkstown Police Department with duties such as traffic control and crowd management, particularly during community events. Town officials estimate auxiliary officers collectively contribute more than 8,000 hours of volunteer service each year, helping to reduce overtime costs while supporting public safety efforts.
To qualify for the exemption, applicants must reside in the town or village they serve, own and occupy the property as their primary residence, and use it exclusively for residential purposes. If a portion of the property is used for nonresidential purposes, only the residential portion would be eligible for the exemption. Applicants must also be certified as active auxiliary police members by their law enforcement agency and have served for at least five years, based on local standards.
Eligible volunteers must apply through the Town Assessor’s Office. The deadline to receive the exemption on the 2027 tax bill is March 1, 2026.
Town officials said the tax relief is intended both to recognize the contributions of current auxiliary officers and to assist with recruitment and retention. Clarkstown Police Auxiliary Captain Ray Francis said the exemption would serve as an incentive for volunteers who donate significant time and effort to the community.
Clarkstown Police Chief Jeff Wanamaker said auxiliary officers play an important role in supporting departmental operations and enhancing public safety during town-sponsored events.
The Town Board authorized a public hearing on the proposed local law at its Jan. 13 meeting. The hearing is scheduled for Feb. 10, when the tax relief measure is expected to be formally enacted.