Politics & Government

New Federal Tax Stabilization Plan Gives Boost to Sandy Victims

Plan utilizing funds from U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development provides tax breaks to those who properties damaged by superstorm.

A new federal tax stabilization plan announced for New York State this week is expected to be a boost for Wantagh and Seaford residents who suffered damage to their properties during Hurricane Sandy.

The plan, which utilizes $300 million from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development as part of a disaster recovery action plan for New York State, gives tax breaks to those who had homes or businesses damaged during the Oct. 29 superstorm, Newsday reported. The initiative also provides funds to protect against tax levies rising on properties who have assessments lowered due to damages caused by Sandy. 

From Newsday:

“The total value of the tax breaks for damaged homes has not been calculated, as Nassau officials said they are still gathering data and assessing damages. But state and local officials both said they are confident the federal government will provide enough money to make the plan a success.”

Michael Cucci, president of the Wantagh Board of Education, said he was pleased to find out about about the tax stabilization plan since many district residents south of Merrick Road suffered major damage to their homes from Sandy. The Wantagh school board took the proactive step of sending a letter to Gov. Andrew Cuomo in February asking for additional funding due to the many Sandy-damaged properties within in the district.

"The Wantagh Board of Education appreciates our elected officials and them recognizing the needs of our community," Cucci said. "This is going to help everybody." 


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