Enfield’s Senior Tax Credit Reinstated — But More Work Remains to Ensure Fairness

On December 1st, the Enfield Town Council voted along party lines to reinstate the Senior Tax Credit Program — a policy that was voted down last year due to numerous structural issues. While the revised version passed by the Democratic majority shows some improvement, concerns remain about whether the program is fair, equitable, and inclusive for all of Enfield’s seniors.

Despite the political narrative suggesting that Republicans do not want to help seniors, the reality is quite the opposite. Republican councilors have repeatedly voiced support for a well-designed, sustainable tax relief program for older residents. Their opposition to this version of the policy stems not from a lack of compassion, but from a belief that the program still falls short of meeting the diverse needs of Enfield’s senior population.

Under the current policy, residents aged 65 and older who volunteer at least 75 hours per year and own property in town may receive up to $400 in tax relief. While encouraging volunteerism is a positive goal, tying tax relief exclusively to volunteer hours and property ownership raises important questions of fairness:

• What about seniors who want to volunteer but cannot due to physical limitations, medical issues, or caregiving responsibilities?
• What about seniors who volunteer extensively but do not own property, such as those living in rentals, senior housing, or with family members?
• What about seniors who are still working full-time or part-time at 65 and beyond just to support their households and make ends meet? Many of these residents would benefit most from tax relief, yet they may have no time to volunteer 75 hours a year. And because the program has no income restrictions, a retiree earning a few hundred thousand dollars a year is eligible for the same credit as a low-income senior struggling to pay bills.

This narrow approach excludes a large portion of Enfield’s older population. A policy designed to help seniors must be more comprehensive, equitable, and inclusive, ensuring that tax relief is directed toward those who truly need it — without creating unnecessary barriers or inequities.

“We believe a policy to help seniors in Enfield should be more inclusive,” said Town Council Minority Leader Carol Hall. “We did not support this policy because the policy needs more work.”

As Enfield moves into the upcoming budget cycle, this issue deserves a comprehensive and transparent discussion. At this point, the Council has no clear understanding of the financial impact this program will have on the town’s budget this year. Before expanding, modifying, or creating new programs, leaders must fully evaluate how each policy affects every resident across the board — homeowners, renters, working families, and seniors alike.

Budget negotiations are the proper venue for this level of review. This is where the town should carefully consider the expansion of programs, adjustments to existing policies, and, when necessary, the elimination of programs that are not functioning as intended. A thoughtful budget process ensures that Enfield allocates resources responsibly while protecting those who rely on essential services.

Republican councilors remain committed to a responsible, equitable, and inclusive approach. Policies intended to help seniors should be built on a full understanding of their financial impact and a genuine commitment to serving all older residents — not just a narrow segment. The upcoming budget season provides the perfect opportunity to get this right on behalf of the entire community.