Town of Wappinger Expands Property Tax Relief for Disabled Veterans and Surviving Spouses of Police Officers Killed in the Line of Duty

WAPPINGER, N.Y. – The Town of Wappinger continues to advance its commitment to affordability and community support through local property tax relief measures benefiting permanently and totally disabled military veterans and surviving spouses of police officers killed in the line of duty. Through two significant legislative actions, the Town is strengthening its support for those who have sacrificed for our nation and community while helping eligible residents manage the costs of homeownership.

These initiatives complement the Town Supervisor’s Tentative Budget for 2027, which once again remains below the New York State tax levy cap and continues to invest in expanded programs, infrastructure, parks, public safety, and services for residents of every age. The Town’s goal remains the same: to keep Wappinger affordable while making meaningful investments in the quality of life its residents deserve.

During the Town Board’s September 14, 2026, meeting, the Town Board unanimously advanced two important property tax relief measures. Resolution 2026-194, concerning real property tax exemption for surviving spouses of officers killed in the line of duty, establishes local support for eligible surviving spouses of police officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their communities. Resolution 2026-195, a local law repealing and replacing the Town’s exemption for permanently and totally disabled military veterans, updates Wappinger’s existing exemption to reflect revised state authorization and provide meaningful property tax relief to qualifying veterans.

During discussion of Resolution 2026-194, Town Supervisor Joseph D. Cavaccini emphasized the importance of supporting law enforcement officers and their families:

“This legislation is a no-brainer for this town government to support to ensure that our veterans, law enforcement, and their families receive the benefits they deserve.”

Councilmember Al Casella of Ward 4 stressed the importance of translating the Town’s appreciation for veterans and law enforcement families into tangible support.

“These initiatives reflect our commitment to honoring those who have sacrificed so much for our country and our community. By providing property tax relief to permanently and totally disabled veterans and eligible surviving spouses of police officers who made the ultimate sacrifice, we are recognizing their service, honoring their sacrifice, and supporting the families who deserve our continued gratitude,” Casella said.

The surviving spouses exemption is authorized under New York State Real Property Tax Law Section 471 and provides a 50% reduction in assessed value for eligible properties, subject to applicable requirements. Qualifying applicants must be the unremarried widow or widower of a police officer killed in the line of duty. The exemption offers targeted financial relief to families who have experienced an extraordinary loss while recognizing the service and sacrifice of law enforcement officers.

The Town’s action builds upon its earlier commitment to disabled veterans. In February 2026, Wappinger became the first municipality in Dutchess County to fully opt into the state-authorized program providing a 100% Town property tax exemption for eligible permanently and totally disabled military veterans. Through Resolution 2026-195, the Town is repealing and replacing its existing local exemption to align with revised state provisions and strengthen this important benefit.

The updated exemption under New York Real Property Tax Law Section 458-a(11) provides qualifying veterans with a full exemption from Town property taxes and applicable special assessments and special ad valorem levies on their primary residence, subject to state and local eligibility requirements. Eligibility includes qualifying veterans with a 100% service-connected disability rating from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or a qualifying individual unemployability determination.

Councilmember Heather O’Dell of Ward 2 highlighted the responsibility local government has to recognize the sacrifices made by veterans, police officers, and their families.

“Our disabled veterans and the families of fallen police officers have made tremendous sacrifices in service to our community. We have a responsibility to honor that service and support them in every way we can. These tax exemptions are a small but meaningful way to express our gratitude and provide financial relief to those who have given so much,” Odell said.

Casella further emphasized that the measures represent a broader commitment to public service and meaningful recognition of sacrifice.

“These exemptions are about more than tax relief. They are about doing right by the people who have served and protected us, recognizing the sacrifices they and their families have made, and ensuring that our community’s gratitude is reflected in meaningful action,” Casella added.

The Town recognizes the important role of state-level leadership in advancing these expanded protections for veterans. Special thanks are extended to New York State Senator Rob Rolison and New York State Assemblymember Anil Beephan for championing the revised disabled veteran’s exemption at the state level and helping make this meaningful local tax relief possible.

Town Supervisor Joseph D. Cavaccini, who sponsored this legislation locally, has consistently championed property tax relief as part of a broader commitment to affordability, public service, and responsible local government. These measures reflect the Town’s belief that recognizing sacrifice should extend beyond words and be reflected in policies that provide tangible support to residents and their families.

“Together, these legislative actions demonstrate Wappinger’s commitment to using local government to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have served. By supporting surviving spouses of fallen police officers and strengthening property tax relief for permanently and totally disabled veterans, the Town continues to prioritize affordability, compassion, and the well-being of the community.”, said Supervisor Cavaccini.

How to Apply:

Eligible permanently and totally disabled veterans must complete Form RP-458-a

Application for Alternative Veterans and Veterans with a Permanent and Total Disability Exemptions from Real Property Taxation and provide the required official U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs documentation.

Eligible surviving spouses of police officers killed in the line of duty must complete Form RP-471

Application for Real Property Tax Exemption for Surviving Spouses of Police Officers Killed in the Line of Duty, along with documentation establishing the officer’s death in the line of duty, the applicant’s marriage to the officer, and current unremarried status.

The standard annual filing deadline is March 1.

Applications must be submitted to the Town of Wappinger Assessor’s Office. Residents are encouraged to contact the Assessor’s Office to confirm eligibility, required documentation, and applicable deadlines.

Additional information about property tax exemptions and application requirements is available through the Town of Wappinger Assessor’s Office at https://townofwappingerny.gov/assessor/.

The Town of Wappinger remains committed to responsible budgeting, keeping taxes affordable, and ensuring that those who have served our nation and community receive the recognition and support they deserve. Through these legislative actions, Wappinger continues to translate its commitment to veterans, law enforcement families, and residents into meaningful policy while protecting the quality of life that makes the Town a great place to live.”