Lawrence officials OK plan for landlords

By Jeanne Starmack

NEW CASTLE, Pa. — Landlords with vacant commercial property in Lawrence County will be able to apply for a tax break next year.

Lawrence County commissioners passed a resolution Tuesday that allows property owners to ask the county board of assessment appeals for a break of up to 40 percent.

The percentage they’re allowed would be based on square footage that is vacant and the assessed value of the property compared with the appraised value, said county assessor J.D. Hardester.

The appeals process would begin in September or October, with tax breaks beginning in 2009, Hardester said.

Commissioners said they are voting for the resolution with the hope of stimulating the economy.

They said they hope the money landlords save in taxes will be used for fixing up and marketing properties, drawing business into the county.

Only stores and apartment complexes that include four or more units are eligible. Industrial and residential properties are not.

John Altman, a New Castle resident, told commissioners at their meeting Tuesday that he is opposed to the plan.

Others at the meeting also said they are worried that the break for landlords will result in higher taxes for residents, and that landlords will take the money and not make any efforts to fill their vacancies.

Commissioner Steve Craig said the county does not want to raise taxes on residents.

“Our goal is to keep taxes where they are,” he said.

“My biggest concern is abuse,” Altman said. “I would applaud the effort to bring in business, but I’ve seen abuse.”

Commissioners said there are conditions in place to prevent abuses of the policy. They also said they will get periodic updates on how it’s working.

“Let’s see how it works. We can revisit it if it doesn’t,” said Commissioner Rich DeBlasio.

Landlords will be able to get breaks only on property that has been vacant for more than a year. They have to show in writing that they are marketing or renovating it.

They have to submit rent rolls or an occupancy list to the county assessment office every three months.

If property changes hands, the new owner has to reapply for the vacancy break.

The owner has to have an appraisal of the property that states its value at 100 percent occupancy. The appraisal can’t be older than three years.

The assessment office will also have the right to visit and inspect the property at any time.

School boards and cities or townships will have the right to refuse a break for their portion of the taxes.