Property Tax Exemption For Southampton Village's Ocean Rescue Squad

SOUTHAMPTON, NY — Southampton town officials have introduced a new law establishing a property tax exemption for enrolled members of the Southampton Village ocean rescue squad.

The law, spearheaded by New York State Assemblymember Tommy John Schiavoni, along with New York State Senator Anthony Palumbo, was introduced to the Southampton Town board on May 8, Southampton Town Councilman Michael Iasilli announced.

The measure, town officials said, underscores the East End’s commitment to supporting emergency responders and attracting dedicated volunteers to serve the community. The new law will offer members of recognized Southampton ocean rescue, as well as their spouses, a property tax exemption of up to 10 percent reduction in the assessed value of real property owned by ocean rescue crew members under New York State real property tax law 466-M.

"The Town of Southampton's ocean rescue members serve as a critical first responder unit, protecting lives along the local waterfront. This new law ensures squad members receive equitable benefits similar to those granted to other first responder units,” Iasilli said. "I applaud Assemblymember Schiavoni and Senator Palumbo for their efforts, working together and getting this done for us."

Schiavoni added: "I am proud to have worked on this initiative in Albany for the members of the Southampton Village Ocean Rescue Squad in conjunction with the Town of Southampton. I want to thank Councilman Iasilli for sponsoring my bill at the town board level so we can get this done."

"Our ocean rescue squads provide critical, lifesaving services for residents and tourists on the East End of Long Island and work in all-weather to keep the ocean, bays and waterways safe. I am proud to work with my colleagues in the state legislature and our local government to ensure that the brave men and women who make up our ocean rescue squads have access to the critical resources and support they need for the important services they provide," Palumbo said.

The bill had the full support of the town board, officials added.