Council Passes Tax Deferral Home Rule Petition

Council Passes Tax Deferral Home Rule Petition

            Councilors Linehan, Murphy, and Ciommo filed a home rule petition to defer property taxes for long-term homeowners.  Mayor Walsh signed the measure, and since it deals with tax policy it will now go to the state legislature for approval.

            Councilor Linehan filed this matter during previous legislative sessions, but due to technical language changes the state legislature requested the matter had to be re-filed this year.  Councilor Linehan expects the petition to pass the legislature this time.

            Councilor Linehan feels the Property Tax Deferral for Long Term Homeowners is vital to keeping our communities strong.  The ordinance will create an opportunity for long time owner-occupied home owners to defer half of their taxes until the property is sold.

            Councilor Linehan said of the bill;  “I thank Councilors Murphy and Ciommo for their support, and I look forward to the state legislature making this a reality for Boston homeowners. Many long-time residents of Boston face continued tax increases based on assessments of their property that continue to grow in value.  They bought modest homes decades ago and now find themselves living in the middle of one of the hottest real estate markets in the country, resulting in an exponential spike in property taxes. This deferral will give long-term homeowners some much-needed tax relief and help them to stay in their homes.  I thank Mayor Walsh for his support, which will be invaluable in making this bill a reality for Boston.  The program will help those living on a fixed income who struggle with the rising costs of living in Boston.”