Mayor Buckley: This is the first step in protecting our most vulnerable residents who rely on a fixed income
From City Hall:
In response to rising costs impacting households across the community, the City of Hornell has expanded its property tax exemption program for residents aged 65 and older. The updated program moves from a flat income cap to a graduated sliding scale designed to help more seniors remain financially secure and stay in their homes.
Under the new structure, the maximum household income eligibility for the senior tax exemption increases from $18,000 to $25,000. Mayor John Buckley stated, “This tiered approach ensures that while the greatest assistance is directed to those with the most limited financial resources, relief is now available to a much broader group of seniors who are also feeling the effects of a higher cost of living. Previously, the program was structured as an all-or-nothing qualification. This graduated system expands eligibility and provides a proportional reduction rather than a simple cutoff.”
The exemption is scaled based on annual income. Residents earning $18,000 or less receive a 50% exemption. The reduction then adjusts in 5% increments for every $1,000 of additional income, providing a 45% exemption for those earning up to $19,000, 40% for those earning up to $20,000, and continuing down to a 15% exemption for residents earning up to $25,000.
“This is the first step in protecting our most vulnerable residents who rely on a fixed income,” said Mayor Buckley. “In recent years, increases in essential living costs, including housing, utilities, food, and healthcare, have placed significant strain on our seniors. This program offers meaningful relief and supports our long-time residents in aging in place with greater stability.”
City Chamberlain Michele Smith emphasized that the expansion was carefully structured to remain fiscally responsible. “This program is affordable and will not have a significant impact on revenue,” Smith said. “It allows us to provide assistance where it is most needed while maintaining the City’s financial health.”
To qualify for the sliding scale exemption, residents must be at least 65 years of age, own and occupy their residence, and have lived in the home for at least one year prior to applying. For more information, residents may contact the Assessor’s Office at City Hall at 607-324-7421.
