Town of Braintree Local Option Measure Related to M.G.L. 59, sec. 5, 41c

It is a pleasure to announce a $500 property tax reduction initiative that I brought forward is approved and signed by Mayor Sullivan.  It expands the benefit to Seniors age 65 and older who meet the financial parameters outlined below. 

As Chairman of the Elder and Veteran's Affairs Committee, I am proud to advocate for both these groups winning approval of this $500 tax reduction and the approval of "The Citizen Soldiers Bill" granting a 100% property tax abatement to our Reservists and National Guard called up to active duty and serving overseas.

I will continue to work hard for all my constituents in District 6, and for all of Braintree. Thank you for your continued support and positive feedback.

Be it ordained by the Town Council of the Town of Braintree that the Town of Braintree pursuant to M.G.L. Chapter 59, Section 5, Clause 41c (the “statute”) hereby adjusts the eligibility requirements within the limits set forth in this statute, commencing with Fiscal Year 2009 as follows:

1. The requisite age of eligibility shall be reduced from 70 years or older to 65 years or older;
2. (Refers to income limits, refer to chart below) The gross receipts limit contained in subclause (B) of said first sentence of this statute whenever they appear in said subclause shall be increased from the existing  $13,000 to $16,085, if single,  and from the existing $15,000 to $19,302, if married;
3. (Refers to asset limits, refer to chart below,) The asset limits contained in subclause (C) of said first sentence of this statute whenever they appear in said subclause shall be increased from the existing $28,000 to $29,881, if single, and from the existing $30,000 to $32,015, if married.

Sources of data and information:

• Massachusetts Census data base (K. Brean)
• 41c local option from DOR/DLS subject matter expert (Lisa J.)
• Property tax bureau, informational guideline release (IGR) No. 02-209
• Income limits and asset limits are calculated as expense neutral, using Braintree’s current limits and adjusted for inflation of 3.81% (source: U.S. Department of Labor,  Bureau of Labor Statistics Oct. 2007 to Oct 2008)
• Collaborated with Finance Director E. Spellman and Braintree B.O.A

Initiated and submitted by:  District 6 Councilor, Paul Dan Clifford

Rev. 5

November 28, 2008

It is indeed gratifying working and collaborating with Quincy City Councilors trying to do better for our citizen's.

If you have any questions on whether you qualify, Please contact the Assessors Office and speak to Marie George at 781-794-8056

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