Nassau assessment audit, Bruce Blakeman

A new audit isn’t the real fix needed

While I agree with doing the assessment audit and am incensed that Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman is blocking it, a new one isn’t necessary [“Nassau should welcome audit,” Editorial, Aug. 11]. Jack Schnirman, during his term as county comptroller, completed such an audit before leaving office on Dec. 31, 2021. He published a list of recommendations, which were ignored by Blakeman.

Fixing Nassau’s assessment system requires state action: removing the 6% cap on the annual tax assessment so realistic adjustments can be made; eliminating the county guarantee that holds Nassau responsible for tax refunds; and changing the clergy exemption to a percentage rather than a fixed exemption, which currently allows clergy living in homes worth up to $1.5 million to pay no property taxes. These changes will go a long way toward creating a fair and accurate tax roll.

Frankly, the best fix is switching from a market-value-based system to a fixed-point system. Point values could be assigned to lot size, square footage and amenities such as pools and decks, with adjustments for location.

This approach would allow homeowners to easily calculate their assessments, reducing the need for tax grievances and ensuring accurate rolls. Of course, the State Legislature would have to pass these reforms.

— Scott Diamond, Levittown

His actual problem is close to home

I find it ironic that Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman’s campaign ads attack Gov. Kathy Hochul over the affordability of living in New York State, considering that he presides over one of the least affordable counties in the state “NY Dem leader files complaint on Blakeman’s use of AI in ads,” News, Aug. 11]. A good reason to vote for him would be to get him out of Nassau County.

— Randy Volkell, Merrick