Politics & Government

County Offers Relief for Storm Damage

Property owners could get a break on their real estate taxes

The Summit County Fiscal Office is offering tax relief to residents who suffered property damage during the nasty thunderstorms in July.

Bath Township Administrator Vito Sinopoli noted that the township wasn't hit as hard by the storms as other communities in the area, but said the offer is open to any Summit County resident who lost property to the storm.

Summit County Fiscal Officer Kristen Scalise said property owner should visit her office's website and click on the Damaged Property link.

Residents may receive a deduction in their real estate taxes at a rate of 50 percent of the amount of damaged property. 

For example, if your property is worth $100,000 and your insurance company says the storms caused $10,000 in damage, you are entitled to a 50 percent reduction in property tax value for the damaged amount.

Your property would be appraised at $95,000 for the 2013 tax year.

The deduction would be reflected in the 2014 tax bill.

Once an application is filed, appraisers will visit the property to determine the amount of damage. Trees, fencing, landscaping and personal items are not included in damage amounts.

Filing deadline is Dec. 31, but Scalise urged residents to file as soon as possible. 

To have a form mailed to you, call 330-643-2704.  


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