Collins Signs Property Tax Exemption for Cold War Veterans

November 25, 2008

New law honors those left out of previous exemptions

Erie County Executive Chris Collins today signed into law a partial county real property tax exemption for Cold War era veterans. Collins singed the bill flanked by veterans and members of the Erie County Legislature following the final public hearing on the matter.

"When we think of a veteran, we tend to envision a member of the military fighting in a far away land during a time of war," said Erie County Executive Chris Collins. "Today, through this new county law, we are honoring those brave men and women who stood at the ready, prepared to defend our country at a moments notice during the years of tension and hostile competition known as the Cold War."

The law allows Cold War era veterans a 15 percent reduction in their county property taxes, up to $12,000, beginning in 2010. A Cold War era veteran is a person who served on active duty in the United States Armed Forces during a period between the end of World War II until December 26, 1991, the date that marks the dissolution of the Soviet Union. The exemption is also available to spouses of deceased Cold War era veterans who have not remarried.

"There are currently several property tax exemptions on the books that cover veterans who served in combat," said Patrick Welch, Erie County's Director of Veterans Services. "This exemption helps to acknowledge those veterans who served their country during the Cold War era. This property tax exemption is one component of Erie County's effort to make this community as veteran friendly as possible."

The Erie County Legislature unanimously approved the partial property tax exemption earlier this year. Legislators Kozub, Mazur and Mills are veterans, and Legislator Miller-Williams is an active duty reservist. "As humans, we cannot choose when we are born, but soon after we are confronted with life choices," said Legislator Tom Mazur. "Some choose to serve their country, and it is fitting and appropriate that those who make that choice are recognized and rewarded for it."

Cold War era veteran Michael Samol acknowledged the significance of today's bill signing. "This partial property tax exemption demonstrates that the people of Western New York honor the service of Cold War era veterans," said Samol, a local attorney and retired member of the United States Marine Corps. "It sends a clear message of recognition and proves that Erie County and its citizens appreciate our contributions."

Cold War era veterans living in Erie County's towns or the City of Tonawanda have until March 1, 2009 to apply for the exemption by visiting their town or city assessor's office. Those eligible who live in Buffalo or the City of Lackawanna must apply by December 1, 2008. New York State has authorized this exemption for ten years.