Our legislative agenda considers the following New York State Issues affecting Niagara County businesses: |
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The Chamber recognizes that Western New Yorkers are paying some of the highest property taxes in the nation. This tax burden hampers growth and has resulted in a loss of business. Although a property tax cap is an important first step, it must be accompanied by further cost reductions to local governments by the State in order for it to be successful.
Action Steps
Support legislation that identifies needs of communities which adhere to the property tax cap and offers a timeframe for relief from state mandates
The Chamber has had success in getting a commitment from Niagara Falls to reduce the burden on businesses by an equalization of commercial and residential tax rates. The tax structure in Niagara Falls imposes an unfair burden on businesses and discourages economic growth and job creation. The four towns that make up the Niagara Wheatfield School District (Niagara, Lewiston, Wheatfield, and Cambria) use homestead/non-homestead rates for school taxes.
Action Steps
As a business advocacy organization, the Chamber feels that the corporate tax system is too inefficient, too complex, and places too much of a burden on businesses, thereby hurting growth and stymieing economic development. Strategies must be developed to reduce the tax burden and make US companies more competitive globally.
Action Steps