Board of Education Public Session 3 2 2026

The Connetquot School District Board of Education held a public session on April 20, 2026, primarily to discuss and vote on a property tax exemption resolution for surviving spouses of police officers killed in the line of duty. The board reviewed the new exemption, which allows up to a 50% reduction in assessed property value for eligible surviving spouses, effective for the 2026-2027 tax year. The board expressed concerns about the short notice for the resolution, limited information on the number of affected individuals, and the fiscal impact on other taxpayers. Despite these concerns, the board voted to approve the resolution matching the town of Islip's 50% exemption. Additionally, the board tabled discussions on related exemptions for surviving spouses of volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers, as well as expanded exemptions for senior citizens, pending further information and public hearings. The meeting highlighted issues with communication and timing from the town regarding these tax exemption changes.