Local News for June 26, 2023

- Cortland County Will Not Give Solar Projects Tax-Exemption -

The Cortland County Legislature voted 12-5 to opt out of a state tax exemption for solar projects. Developers can still negotiate Payment In Lieu of Taxes or PILOT agreements with the county’s IDA, the Industrial Development Agency. The Cortland Voice reports the legislature made the decision based on a recommendation from outside consulting attorneys. Five hundred municipalities in the state have opted out of the exemption including the towns of Homer, Preble, and Cincinnatus in Cortland.

- Small Business Can Still Apply For Covid-Related Tax Relief -

A state COVID tax credit program is still open for small business owners. The program is run by the Empire State Development agency. The Albany Times Union reports the relief is for COVID-related expenses like hand sanitizer stations, air purifiers, or social distancing equipment. Independently-owned New York businesses with no more than 100 employees and total earnings of less than $2.5 million are eligible. The deadline to apply is September 30. For more information, go to https://esd.ny.gov/covid-19-capital-costs-tax-credit.