Jericho Schools: Tax breaks and conduct code changes proposed
The district plans to exempt up to 50% of home values for certain residents and bans e-bikes on campus grounds.
By Justin Barnes ·
The Jericho Board of Education has outlined new financial relief measures and behavioral rules for its schools.
On Oct. 29, the board introduced proposals that would grant property tax exemptions to specific groups of residents. The plan covers surviving spouses of police officers, volunteer firefighters, and volunteer ambulance workers who died in the line of duty. It also includes senior citizens and fully disabled veterans.
Superintendent Robert Kravitz noted that the district has not yet set a specific percentage for the veteran and senior exemptions. However, the proposal suggests that surviving spouses could receive an exemption covering up to 50% of their home's assessed value. Kravitz stated that these benefits would apply to qualifying individuals with an annual income between $47,000 and $58,400.
Yani D., a Jericho resident and U.S. Air Force veteran, addressed the board about the veteran exemption. She said, "Your decision has the potential to genuinely change the life of a disabled veteran and that veteran’s family." D. added that the move could allow veterans to establish homes in the community and provide their children access to local education.
The board also moved to adopt a revised Code of Character, Conduct and Support. President Sam Perlman explained that the new code will prohibit e-bikes and e-scooters on district property. Although the specific language was not in the written revision, Perlman said the board would adopt the code with the presumption that the ban applies. He noted that staff members Victor Manuel and Michael Hahn will create signage to communicate the rule.
The revision also removes the "see something, say something" clause. Previously, that rule held students responsible if they witnessed a weapon and failed to report it. Under the new code, students will not be held responsible for not reporting a weapon and will not be in violation of the code.
During the meeting, Kravitz also announced a change in the district's milk vendor following several incidents of spoiled milk. The board determined on Oct. 8 that the former vendor, Cream-O-Land Dairy, was responsible. The district will use an intermediate vendor while searching for a permanent replacement.
The board will hold a public hearing on the tax exemptions during its Nov. 19 meeting. A vote on the measure could take place in December.
