Guv extends deadline for Nassau property tax payments

The state government plans to extend Wednesday's deadline to file property taxes in the towns of Hempstead, North Hempstead and Oyster Bay because of the blizzard sweeping the region, officials said.

Once the state Office of Emergency Management declares a state of emergency for Nassau County, Gov. David A. Paterson intends to sign an executive order to postpone the deadline, a spokeswoman for Paterson said this afternoon.

The new deadline has not yet been set, said spokeswoman Lauren Passalacqua.

Town of Hempstead Supervisor Kate Murray, who requested the extension Tuesday as the storm approached, said the move would grant relief to hundreds who feared driving on slippery roads to pay their tax bills.

About 320 people had visited the tax receiver's office on North Franklin Street in Hempstead by late afternoon, a town spokesman said.

"I am absolutely thrilled that the governor has come around to our way of thinking and has granted our request," Murray said.