Letters

On behalf of Southampton Village Ocean Rescue (SVOR), we are deeply grateful to Mayor Bill Manger and the Southampton Village Board, including Trustee Roy Stevenson, our liaison, for formally adopting the local law authorizing up to a 10 percent property tax exemption for SVOR members. A heartfelt thank you to Eileen Powers, village attorney, for her diligent work in facilitating this resolution, guiding it smoothly to completion in a timely manner. We also value Scott Russell, village administrator, for his important input and we sincerely appreciate the continued support of the village we proudly serve.

Thanks to the efforts of Assemblyman Tommy John Schiavoni, former Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele Jr. and the support of Governor Kathy Hochul, the New York State law was passed establishing eligibility for a 10 percent property tax exemption for enrolled members of SVOR, laying the groundwork for its adoption into local law.

We are deeply grateful to Ann Welker, Suffolk County legislator, for her leadership and advocacy in helping to secure passage of this law at the county level. We also truly thank Maria Moore, Southampton Town supervisor, and the Southampton Town Board for recognizing the valuable work we do and for adopting this law in the Town of Southampton.

This property tax exemption is already available to members of other essential volunteer emergency service agencies throughout Suffolk County and New York State, and SVOR first responders are honored to be recognized in the same way. By acknowledging the critical, life-saving service provided by our volunteer ocean rescuers, this gesture not only supports retention but also strengthens recruitment at a time when the demand for qualified ocean rescue personnel continues to rise.

Thank you again for all your support, which provides meaningful recognition of our service and underscores the vital role SVOR volunteers play in serving the community.

Alex King

Chief

Southampton Village Ocean Rescue