Busy Day at Town Hall as Property Tax Payment Deadline Nears

Business is brisk at Town Hall this week as residents scramble to beat Thursday's property tax payment deadline.

With the parking lot full and a steady stream of residents moving quickly through the payment windows at throughout most of the day Thursday, stakes are high for residents who fail to get their payments in on time.

Town Hall is open until 7 p.m. Thursday for those who need to pay.

Taxpayers who miss the deadline could face stiff penalties including an 11 percent hike in fees starting Friday, according to , Huntington's receiver of taxes.

"There's a five percent penalty plus five percent interest on top of that, according to Bivona. 

Bivona said the down economy seems to be taking its toll on some. 

"A lot more people are making partial payments this year because they can't afford to pay the full tax," said Bivona. 

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One Huntington resident exiting Town Hall after making a payment Thursday said she usually waits until the last day to pay in order to save a few dollars.

"I'd rather have the money in my account than their account," said Tracy Halbeisen of Huntington, satisfied with the speed and courtesy of Town Hall workers Thursday.

Residents may avoid penalty and interest if the envelope bears proper postage no later than May 31. Some deadline exemptions apply for qualified residents including senior citizens. Check with Town website for more information.