The Town of Clarkstown has become the first municipality in Rockland County to offer property tax relief to Police Auxiliary volunteers, approving a real property tax exemption aimed at recognizing their service and supporting recruitment efforts.
Supervisor George Hoehmann and the Clarkstown Town Board advanced the measure following the enactment of new state legislation allowing towns to “opt in” and provide a tax exemption of up to 10 percent of the assessed value of a volunteer’s primary residence. The local law mirrors a 2024 amendment to New York State Real Property Tax Law that authorized similar exemptions for volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel.
“I am delighted to extend this tax relief benefit to our auxiliary police volunteers, which is something the Town had been lobbying for since 2024,” Supervisor Hoehmann said. “Clarkstown will provide the maximum 10 percent exemption allowed under state law to our auxiliary police officers, just as we have done for our volunteer firefighters and EMS members.”
Clarkstown Police Auxiliary Officers play a critical role in public safety, assisting with traffic control, crowd management, and community events—responsibilities that would otherwise fall to on-duty officers. Collectively, auxiliary officers contribute more than 8,000 volunteer hours each year, helping reduce overtime costs while keeping the community safe.
Under the provisions of the new local law, an enrolled auxiliary police volunteer may qualify for the 10 percent property tax exemption if specific requirements are met. Applicants must reside in the town or village in which they serve, the property must be their primary residence and used primarily for residential purposes, and the volunteer must be certified as an active auxiliary police officer for at least five years under local law enforcement standards.
Eligible volunteers must submit an application to the Town Assessor’s Office. The deadline to qualify for a reduction on the 2027 tax bill is March 1, 2026.
Supervisor Hoehmann thanked the Town Council for its support, noting that the exemption will also help strengthen recruitment. “These dedicated volunteers give so much to our community,” he said. “This tax relief recognizes their service and will help attract new volunteers who are greatly needed.”
Ray Francis, Captain of the Clarkstown Police Auxiliary, praised the initiative as a meaningful step for recruitment and retention. “We are honored to serve our community and grateful for this show of appreciation,” he said.
Clarkstown Police Chief Jeff Wanamaker also welcomed the measure, saying auxiliary officers provide valuable support to the department and enhance public safety at town-sponsored events. He thanked the Town Board for recognizing the dedication of auxiliary officers.
The Town Board authorized a public hearing on the proposal at its January 13 meeting. The hearing is scheduled for February 10, when the tax relief measure is expected to be formally enacted.