Officials Urge Governor Hochul To Extend School Tax Deadline Amidst Government Shutdown

OYSTER BAY, NY — Oyster Bay's town officials are urging Governor Kathy Hochul's office to extend the school property tax deadline during the ongoing federal government shutdown.

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Receiver of Taxes Jeffrey Pravato sent a letter to Hochul urging her office to issue an executive order to extend the deadline for payment of the first half of school taxes, of Nov. 10, by a minimum of 30 days, without the imposition of a penalty or interest.

“Due to the ongoing federal government shutdown and resulting economic hardship facing thousands of federal employees and contractors across Long Island, the Town of Oyster Bay has been inundated with requests from residents seeking relief,” said Saladino. “Many of these individuals are experiencing delayed or suspended pay, creating significant financial strain on families who are struggling to meet essential expenses.”

The Town of Oyster Bay does not set these school taxes, but the taxes are collected by the town's receiver of taxes. Deadlines are imposed by New York State.

Pravato said that many affected residents have shared concerns about their ability to make timely payments due to the government shutdown.

“School property taxes represent a major household obligation, and the sudden loss of a paycheck through no fault of these workers — places them all in an untenable position," said Pravato.

If the state issues the executive order, Town of Oyster Bay officials said it would be a tremendous help to those affected.

“This relief would provide immediate and meaningful assistance to federal workers and their families during this period of uncertainty, while also supporting our local communities as they navigate the economic impacts of the shutdown,” Saladino said.