“The proposal to cap and shift the state’s property tax payments for Forest Preserve lands puts the towns and villages in the Adirondacks at a severe disadvantage. Right now, these lands are assessed the same way private lands are, and the state is required to pay taxes to North Country communities. The governor’s proposal would replace this system with payments in lieu of taxes (PILOTs), threatening the revenue our municipalities and counties rely on to provide vital support for residents, as well as amenities for visitors.

“I’m deeply concerned that shifting to PILOTS instead of property taxes will give our communities less leverage to negotiate with state officials in the future. This change puts critical funds at risk, and down the line local taxpayers, who are already overburdened, may have to pick up the tab.”