Property tax deferrals are indeed a great way for seniors to free up income ("Will work for tax break," Globe NorthWest, March 23). But contrary to what your article indicated, state law still caps the applicant's income eligibility at $40,000, and the minimum age remains 65.
A number of years ago, several local towns were able, by home rule petition, to increase the income limits for their deferrals. As far as we know, the Legislature's Joint Committee on Revenue has not recently allowed any similar home rule petitions to go forth.
Lexington selectmen and Town Meeting have voted twice to present home rule petitions to enhance our property tax deferral program. Our second attempt is currently under review by the Joint Committee. We are hopeful that our petition will be successful and that Lexington will be able to gradually include seniors with higher incomes in our program.
While not changing the income limit, recent state legislation has allowed towns to lower the deferral interest rate. Lexington's interest rate for next year's deferrals will be in the vicinity of 2 percent simple interest.
So even though Lexington's deferral program income cap is still $40,000, it is an excellent, safe, low-cost opportunity for seniors to use the equity in their homes to pay their taxes. Lexington seniors who are interested in learning more about this option should call the assessors' office at 781-862-0500, ext 203.
VICKI BLIER,
PAT E. COSTELLO,
Cochairs, Board of Selectmen's Tax Deferral and Exemption Study Committee, Lexington
