GOVERNOR SIGNS BILL THAT WILL AUTHORIZE THE CITY OF SYRACUSE TO ADD UNPAID HOUSING CODE VIOLATIONS TO ITS TAX LEVY

John A. DeFrancisco

August 1, 2018

Senator John A. DeFrancisco (R-I-C, Syracuse) today announced that his bill (S.3131-A), authorizing the City of Syracuse to add unpaid housing code violation penalties, costs and fines to its annual tax levy through placement by the city’s commissioner of finance, was signed into law by Governor Cuomo. 

To qualify for placement on the city’s tax levy, the amount owed for the unpaid housing code violations must be at least five percent of the amount of the tax assessed value of the property. The bill will exclude properties that serve as a primary residence. Further, the property owner will have the right to pay the full balance prior to the expiration of the redemption period set forth by the City of Syracuse.

“The goal of this new law is to hold landlords in the City of Syracuse accountable for continuous housing code violations. Additionally, it will help the city enforce its collection of any associated penalties and fines, reduce administrative costs incurred in the process, and improve the quality of life in our neighborhoods,” said Senator DeFrancisco.
 
This act shall take effect immediately. 
                                                                                       

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