Jericho schools propose tax breaks for veterans and seniors, ban e-bikes on campus

The Jericho Board of Education proposed four new tax exemptions for local residents on Oct. 29. The plan targets specific groups, including surviving spouses of first responders killed in the line of duty, senior citizens, and fully disabled veterans. The board will hold a public hearing on Nov. 19 to discuss the proposal. A formal vote could take place in December.

The proposed exemption for the spouses of police officers, volunteer firefighters, and volunteer ambulance workers could cover up to 50% of the home's assessed value. Superintendent Robert Kravitz stated that the district has not yet determined the percentage for disabled veterans or qualifying seniors. To receive the benefit, eligible individuals must have an annual income between $47,000 and $58,400.

Yani D., a Jericho resident and U.S. Air Force veteran, submitted letters to the board requesting approval for the disabled veteran exemption. She asked the board to consider the measure after the public hearing. "Your decision has the potential to genuinely change the life of a disabled veteran and that veteran’s family," Yani said. "It could provide an opportunity for a veteran to establish a home in this community and give their children access to an exceptional education in this Jericho school district."

The board also moved to adopt a revised Code of Character, Conduct and Support. Board President Sam Perlman noted that the new rules will prohibit e-bikes and e-scooters on district property. Perlman said the board would adopt the code with the understanding that the ban was previously discussed. "There will be no e-bikes or e-scooters allowed on district property," Perlman said. He added that staff members Victor Manuel and Michael Hahn would create signage to display the rule on campus.

The revised code also removes a provision informally known as "see something, say something." Perlman explained that the old rule held students responsible if they saw a weapon and failed to report it. Under the new language, students who observe a weapon and do not report it will not be held responsible or in violation of the code.

During the meeting, Kravitz announced that the district is changing its milk vendor. The district experienced several instances of spoiled milk from its previous supplier, Cream-O-Land Dairy. The board determined on Oct. 8 that the issue lay with the former vendor. Kravitz said the district will use an intermediate vendor while it searches for a permanent replacement.