Wappinger Town Takes Action as First Municipality in County to Pass Disabled Veterans Tax Exemption
Wappinger, NY — The Town of Wappinger is proud to take meaningful action in support of those who have served our country. During the Monday, February 9, 2026, Regular Meeting of the Town Board, the Town unanimously adopted a local law creating a 100% exemption on Town property taxes for permanently and totally disabled military veterans, making Wappinger the first municipality in Dutchess County to fully adopt this New York State legislation at the local level.
This action reflects the Town’s continued commitment to honoring veterans through concrete policy initiatives that provide meaningful support to those who have sacrificed for our nation. By aligning local law with state authorization, Wappinger is ensuring that eligible veterans may receive full relief from the Town portion of property taxes on their primary residence.
Town Supervisor Joseph D. Cavaccini stated, “Wappinger is proud to lead the way as the first municipality in Dutchess County to adopt New York State’s legislation fully exempting 100% disabled American veterans from Town property taxes. This is more than policy — we are ensuring that those who sacrificed the most for our nation will never be forgotten here. From our first-of-its-kind Walk of Heroes to the revitalization of our war memorials, we honor service with action. While the Town portion is the smallest share of the tax bill, we hope other taxing authorities will join us in doing their part to support the heroes who protected our freedoms.”
Senior Councilman William H. Beale, who represents the First Ward noted, “Our town has a proud record of supporting military service veterans. It was an honor to vote for this local tax benefit.”
Second Ward Councilwoman Heather O’Dell said, “The Town of Wappinger is proud to honor the service and sacrifice of our disabled veterans by providing this new property tax exemption. This local law ensures that those who have given so much for our country receive the recognition and support they deserve right here at home.”
Third Ward Councilman Christopher Phillips shared, “Veterans have already paid their share through service and sacrifice. Removing local taxes is one small but meaningful way we can say thank you and ensure veterans can continue to build their lives right here at home.”
Fourth Ward Councilman Al Casella added, “I fully support the resolution for a tax exemption for disabled veterans in the Town of Wappinger. It is a meaningful way to show our commitment to helping our veterans. This is not a handout, but a recognition of service, sacrifice, and a promise to those who gave so much for our freedom. While this is a small token of our gratitude, we want our veterans to know they are very much in our hearts for all that they have done for our country.”
The exemption applies to veterans who meet specific eligibility requirements established under New York State law. Generally, qualifying veterans must have a 100% service-connected disability rating with a Permanent and Total designation, or be designated as Totally Disabled based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU) by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Additional eligibility criteria is dictated by the State of New York and includes certain qualifying service-related conditions recognized under New York State Veterans’ Services Law, such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), or Military Sexual Trauma (MST), as well as eligibility for the VA’s Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) grant. Discharged LGBT veterans with an other-than-dishonorable or bad conduct discharge may also qualify under state guidelines.
This action reflects Wappinger’s ongoing dedication to remaining a veteran-friendly community and honoring the important role veterans play in strengthening our Town. We are proud to stand with our veterans and continue working to ensure Wappinger remains a place they are proud to call home.
Eligible veterans can apply through the Town of Wappinger Assessor’s Office for this exemption that would take effect during the 2027 tax cycle.
