Binghamton – Governor Andrew Cuomo signed in to law a flood relief package that consisting of a number of initiatives led by Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo (D-Endwell). Included in the legislation is property tax relief, grants to municipalities and school districts, and tax credits for businesses that Lupardo proposed back in October.

"When the flooding brought so much damage and destruction to the Southern Tier, I introduced several pieces of legislation to make sure our communities had the resources they need to recover,” said Lupardo (D-Endwell). “I thank my colleagues in the legislature for taking up the bills this past week, and this funding will help businesses, families, and towns and villages get back on their feet and return to life as normal. It is remarkable what can happen when those in government work together and I thank Governor Cuomo and his team for their leadership in the storm recovery effort and for coming here today to sign this important law."

The $50 million aid package dedicated for flood relief across the state includes the following proposals from Lupardo:

• $20 million to reimburse municipalities and school districts for their portion of disaster related costs that FEMA doesn't cover.
• Properties will also be able to be re-assessed ahead of the annual March challenge date.
• Municipalities and school districts will be able to offer installment plans for property tax payments.
• For the 2011-12 school year, school districts will also be able to request advanced payments of school aid.

Lupardo, a member of the Economic Development Committee in the Assembly, also advocated for additional assistance to business. The flood relief package includes a job retention credit for businesses impacted by flooding. This would provide BAE Systems with a $40 million tax credit package to help them remain in the area.

Additionally, Empire State Development Corporation (ESDC) will administer $21 million for direct grants of up to $20,000 for small businesses, farms, multiple dwellings, and not-for-profits that sustained direct flood related damage in Hurricane Irene or Tropical Storm Lee. The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and ESDC will administer $9 million in grants for counties to support flood control or flood mitigation projects.