By Patrick J. McNally
ARTICLE 24 from the 2021 Annual Town Meeting as stated: To see if the Town will vote to accept the provisions of Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 59, Section SK, providing for the adoption of a Senior Volunteer Tax Relief Work-Off Program, to be administered by the Select Board, allowing persons over the age of 60 to volunteer to provide services to the Town in exchange for which the Town shall reduce the real property tax obligations of such persons by abatement in the amount of up to $1,500.00 maximum in a given tax year, and further allowing the maximum reduction of the real property tax bill to be based on 125 volunteer service hours in a given tax year, rather than $1,500 and allowing an approved representative, for persons physically unable, to provide such services to the Town; or take any action in relation thereto.
The article was submitted by Kellie Hebert, Town Administrator, and the Select Board. Recommendations for approval were made by the Select Board and the Finance Committee. ARTICLE 24 was Moved by Board Member John Kilcoyne.
ARTICLE 24 formerly accepts the provision of Massachusetts State Law that allows for a Senior Volunteer Tax Relief Work-Off Program. A program is currently in place, however, adoption of this article is a recommended “housekeeping” item to ensure that Sterling’s eligible property owners may benefit.
ARTICLE 24 was a majority vote (more than 50% needed). With a total of 144 votes received, 134 were in favor (YES) and 10 were opposed (NO). ARTICLE 24 was passed.
So, how do I sign up for this program? If you are over 60 years old, own and live in a home in Sterling, you are eligible to join the Senior Tax Work Off Program. Under this program, department heads are able to avail themselves to the skill set of the participating seniors. For their services, qualified participants are credited $12.00 per hour toward a reduction in their tax bills of up to $1000.00 per year.
The program runs from November 1 to October 31 each year. There are a limited number of participants allowed.
The amount of the property tax reduction, earned by the senior taxpayer, under this program, is not considered income or wages for purposes of state income tax withholding. However, the IRS has ruled that the abatement amount is included in the taxpayer’s gross income for federal income tax.
This program is administered by the Senior Executive Assistant, Kama Jayne. If interested in learning more about this program, please call 978-422-8111 x2316, or visit www.sterling-ma.gov for more information.