For second year, Williamsville's school tax rate decreases

At its first regular meeting of the new school year held Aug. 17, the Williamsville Board of Education established the 2006-07 tax levy in the amount of $95 million which will result in a tax rate that is 0.11 percent lower than last year.

The 2006-07 property tax rate for homeowners in the towns of Amherst and Clarence served by the district is $19.45 per $1,000 of assessed valuation.

"It is important to note that for a second consecutive year, we were able to reduce the property tax rate while

maintaining the excellent instructional and co-curricular programs for our students," Howard S. Smith, superintendent, said.

The property tax levy represents 69 percent of the total revenues supporting the district's $139 million budget, approved by voters in May. The tax rate results from the levy amount, the town assessors' decisions regarding real estate values, and the New York State Office of Real Property Services regarding equalization rates, used to compensate for different assessment practices from one town to the next.

New York State's STAR exemption will reduce the net school tax bill, saving Williamsville homeowners $585, with eligible senior citizens who own a home realizing a tax reduction of $973. In addition to STAR, homeowners will receive a tax rebate check from New York State, with the standard rebate for Williamsville homeowners set at $179.37 and the senior citizen rebate set at $299.55. The state is expected to mail out rebate checks before Oct. 31.