CINDY HARRIS
WESTFIELD – A letter from At-large City Councilor Cindy C. Harris and Ward 2 Councilor Ralph Figy was hand-delivered to State Representative John C. Velis at his home in Westfield on Friday, requesting that he initiate legislation that will increase the statutory real estate tax exemptions for qualifying veterans.
Harris explained that property owners who are veterans receive a tax exemption for their service, an amount that has not increased in fifteen years.
“We feel it is appropriate at this time to present it to the legislature to increase the amounts,” Harris said. Harris described herself as a Gold Star daughter, whose father died in the Korean War. She said she is passionate about helping “those who fought for our country.”
RALPH FIGY
“Hopefully, this is something our legislators can get behind to do something to help our veterans statewide,” said Figy, who co-signed the letter. He said through their work on the City Council, he and Harris found out that the city doesn’t set the tax exemptions. In order to change them, it must be done at the state level.
“We have been looking at ways to keep people in their homes,” Figy said.
“I’m very passionate about this, and I’m sure Ralph is too,” Harris said. “Rep. Velis is the perfect one to pursue this measure, once he has time to examine it. He’s been very active in veterans’ affairs. If it is at all possible, I’m sure he will do what he can,” she added.
Harris said she also suggested sending a copy of the letter to State Senator Don Humason and to the state and city’s Departments of Veterans’ Services.
“My sole purpose is to help the veterans and their families,” Harris said.
