Supporting Payment In Lieu of Taxes legislation in Massachusetts, bills HD.2091 and SD.761.

WHEREAS: The City of Somerville’s large nonprofit sector plays a important role in our success, but the significant amount of property held in tax exempt status presents unique challenges to our tax base; and WHEREAS: Cities across America, including Massachusetts, receive voluntary payment In Lieu of Taxes or PILOT payments from their largest private, tax exempt Institutions in recognition of critical municipal services like fire rescue, public works and police; and WHEREAS: The City of Somerville’s City Council has supported efforts to have fair and Equitable PILOT agreements; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: That this City Council supports changes to Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 59 that would make it easier for municipalities to collect a minimum of 25% of tax value from large nonprofits having property valuing more than $15 million.