Does the Society make payments in lieu of taxes in New York state? I know that when Suiter
was treasurer they fought tooth and nail to hold on to their tax exempt status for the Brooklyn
factories. However, I did hear a rumor that the Society was now making such payments voluntarily.
Is this true? In any case, Kingdom Halls still don't pay property taxes.
Well, in NY state, Elliot Spitzer is having trouble making good on his promises to lower taxes and
stop forcing business out of the state.
This might be a perfect opportunity to encourage the state to demand that churches pay
a minimum tax for police and fire protection. Also, such organizations should not be allowed
a 'free ride' just because they claim some public benefit while spreading outright intolerance
as a part of their beliefs. All tax exempt organizations should be forced to show obvious,
physical benefit to their communities -such as soup kitchens and the like.
As to legal precedent, I know that many Kingdom Halls pay sewer taxes and assessments,
making a case for expansion of their tax responsibilities.
metatron