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Assessor

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1. What are my taxes & when are they due?

Taxes are due the same time every year:

• 4/30: County/Town Tax Due
• 9/30: 1st Half School Tax Due
• 1/31: 2nd Half School Tax Due

For more information on tax bills, amounts, and late penalties, please contact the Receiver of Taxes' office at 914-742-2348.

2. Will my assessment increase if I improve or renovate my home?

It depends. Generally, any improvement that increases the market value of your home should increase your assessment. However, each project is reviewed individually and sometimes an increase isn't warranted.

If you are contemplating an improvement/renovation and want to obtain an estimate on whether your assessment will change and to what extent, this office can help you.

• Please provide us with plans and/or drawings as detailed as possible.
• A statement of the intended work to be done.
• An estimate of market costs to complete the project (full market value).

We will reply by letter with an estimate of the change, if any, to your assessment, which is good for one year from the date of the written response and subject to our inspection and verification of the work done upon completion of the same.

Please call the Assessor's office at 914-742-2345 if you have questions.

3. What do I need for an informal review of the assessment on my residential property?

The Assessor's Office will, upon request, provide an informal review of your assessment if you believe the equalized value exceeds the current market value of your property.

To determine your equalized market value, divide the total assessment of your property by the latest residential assessment ratio. If the result is higher than the current market value of your property, you may be over-assessed.

Informal review requests (which may be made by the property owner, contract vendee, or a real estate agent authorized by the owner) must be made in writing and include the following:

• Your opinion of the current market value of the property supported by an appraisal or analysis which includes a thorough description of all improvements and conclusive evidence of market value (generally, a Fannie Mae appraisal by an NYS licensed appraiser provides the best documentation).
• A list of all improvements made to the home within the last two years. Also, include improvements that you plan to make prior to next June 1.
• A contact name and daytime phone number to arrange an inspection if necessary

Please be advised that the deadline for filing an Informal Review request is the last business day in March for consideration on the June 1st Tentative Assessment Roll. If the assessment is reduced, you will receive a letter to that effect on or around June 1st. Taxes based on this assessment start with the town/county tax bill issued in April of the following year.

If your assessment is not reduced, you will be advised. If you choose, you may file a grievance with the Board of Assessment Review by the third Tuesday in June.

Assessed Value divided by Residential Assessment Ratio = Assessor's Estimate Market Value

Note: It is not possible to offer this service between April 1st and August 1st in any given year as the appropriate time is not available to devote to each case.

4. I think my taxes are too high. Do I need to hire someone to represent me?

The Assessor's office will upon request, provide an informal review of your assessment. There is no need to hire an attorney or representative. The Assessor's office can only address the value of your property through its assessment; we have no control over tax rates. View more information on the informal review process.

5. What types of exemptions are offered and who is eligible?

Virtually all owner-occupied primary residences are eligible for exemptions. Some exemptions are STAR, Senior Citizens, Veterans, Persons with Disabilities, and Volunteer Firefighter/Ambulance Workers. On this site, you will find most of the exemptions offered with requirements and applications. The deadline for all exemption applications is June 1. If you have any further questions you can call the Assessor's office at 914-742-2345.

6. When is grievance day?

Grievance Day is the third Tuesday of June.

Find Grievance details and forms in the Assessor department. If you have any further questions you can call the Assessor's Office at 914-742-2345.

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Boards & Committees - Town Historian

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1. Is there any historical information about the Town available online?

Many of the Town's historical records, including photos, are stored at the Westchester County Records Center 2199 Saw Mill River Road, Elmsford, New York 10523, 914-231-1500. The records center can be visited and files can be searched after signing up.

• Records Center page
• Online Collections Database

2. I have a question about the Town’s history, who do I contact?

Please email Jim Maxwell, Town Historian.

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Boards & Committees - Zoning Board of Appeals

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1. What do I need for a Zoning Board application?

1. The applicant shall submit a written application and electronic version for Zoning and Building Permit to the Building Department together with 3 sets of a certified survey and proposed site plan each showing and indicating all existing and proposed structures with proper dimensions, setbacks, and lot area including decks, tool sheds, swimming pools, etc. together with elevation drawings required fee, $100 for proposed work, $350 for Existing structures.
2. Applications must be submitted at least 4 weeks prior to a meeting to be considered for placement on the next agenda.
3. An appointment with the Zoning Administrator and Building Inspector will be scheduled for plan review, following that meeting, and upon receiving a denial letter from the Building Department further documentation including (2) Zoning Board of Appeals applications (blue forms) and a short environmental assessment form will be issued for the applicant to complete.
4. Applicants must submit the Zoning Board of Appeals (blue forms) applications in person and will be responsible for the publishing of the legal public notice (prepared by the Zoning Administrator) in the Journal News as well as the mailings certified return receipt to the adjoining neighbors (prepared by the Zoning Administrator)
5. Applicants will be furnished with all information pertaining to this notification process along with the name and addresses of the adjoining neighbors.
6. Applicants will then be placed on the agenda for the next available meeting.
7. A decision is usually rendered the night of the meeting unless it is adjourned by the Board.
8. Upon receipt of the written Resolution of Approval from the Board, a Building Permit must be obtained from the Building Inspector prior to the start of any construction.

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Building

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1. How do I file a complaint?

You can file a complaint by filling out a Building Department Complaint Form (PDF) (online form coming soon!) and delivering it in person to the Building Department at Town Hall or fax it to 914-769-3155.

2. What are the regulations and guidelines for removal and abandonment of oil tanks?

Any oil tank that is 1,100 gallons or above needs to be registered with Westchester County at the Westchester County Department of Health located in New Rochelle.

For the removal of any oil tank, a building permit and plumbing permits are required. The Building Inspector also requires inspections when the tank is removed. To apply for the building permit for an oil tank, please complete a building permit application in-person or online. A plumbing permit must also be filed by an oil tank company or licensed plumber.

3. When do I need an Elevator Permit?

All elevators require a Building Permit and yearly inspections. For elevator information contact the Building Department.

4. What if I have a question concerning zoning or construction on a neighbor's property?

At this time, all zoning questions require an in-office visit. If you have a complaint concerning zoning or construction on a neighbor's property, please file a formal complaint via email, mail or in person with the Building Department. Please be sure to include the address of the property and a detailed description of the complaint.

5. How do I obtain a Certificate of Occupancy or a Certificate of Compliance?

A Certificate of Occupancy or Certificate of Compliance will be issued after a permit is issued, applicable fees are paid, a final inspection is complete, and an Affidavit of Final Cost (notarized) is filed with the Building Department. If electrical work was done, an electrical certificate is needed.

6. How long do I have to wait to obtain a permit?

Permits can take up to 4 to 6 weeks. Commercial structures can take one month or longer to complete the review, depending on the size and detail of the plans.

7. What do I need a Building Permit for?

A permit is a formal document authorizing the commencement of some action or work on your home or property that is subject to Code regulations. Any structure or new construction added to the property and any work requiring electric and plumbing revision or replacement requires a permit as follows:

• Addition
• Basketball court
• Boiler
• Central air
• Deck
• Fence
• Greenhouse
• Hot tub
• Interior Alterations
• Pergola
• Permanent generator
• Pool
• Retaining wall
• Roof
• Solar panel
• Swing set
• Temporary tent/carport
• Tennis court
• Treehouse
• Storage shed
• Storage tank
• Structural change to stairs/steps

8. When do I need a Plumbing Permit?

Plumbing permits are required for all plumbing work performed in the Town of Mount Pleasant. Plumbers must be licensed by Westchester County. A letter from your plumber should be sent to the Building Department stating that all plumbing operations are in order at your premises and were performed in accordance with New York State Building code (current edition). For Plumbing information contact the Plumbing Inspector.

9. What happens if I start work without first obtaining a permit?

You will not be able to obtain a Certificate of Occupancy. The law provides that a Stop Work Order must be issued and fines may be imposed.

10. Are inspections required after the permit is issued?

Yes, construction inspections are required during the various phases of construction.

11. Do I need any other approvals from other departments prior to the Building Department?

Large-scale construction projects may also require approval from the Town Board, Planning Board and/or Zoning Board of Appeals, Engineering Department, Fire Department, New York State Department of Transportation, and Westchester County Department of Planning. For further information concerning zoning requirements, call the Building Department.

12. What do I need to know about Architectural Review Board Applications?

The Architectural Review Board reviews:

1. All applications for signage and facades on non-residential property.
2. All new construction and renovations - non-residential. Any changes (paint color, additions, etc.)

What do I need for an Architectural Review Board Application?

1. The applicant shall submit an application for Building Permit, an Architectural Board of Review Application, 11 copies of the certified survey and plans drawn to scale, and the required fee (as determined by the Building Department) to the Building Department.
2. Free Standing Signs and Signs on Building:
   1. Free Standing signs are considered a structure and must be approved by the Zoning Board of Appeals prior to being reviewed by the Architectural Board of Review. A separate application to the Zoning Board must be filed.
   2. Applicants for all signs must submit copies of a plan drawn to scale showing the dimensions of the front of the building and the location of the sign thereon. Complete dimensions of the sign and lettering must be indicated along with colors. Color samples of lettering and background should be submitted if possible.
   3. Copies of the survey or site plan must be submitted and, in the case of free-standing signs, the location of signs on the property must be shown with dimensions from the nearest building and the setback from the road. (Signs are not permitted on right-of-ways.)
   4. Details of the construction of signs, including the type of framing and method of fastening to the building should be provided. For a free-standing sign, the dimensions and height of the post that the sign will be mounted on should be provided. If lighting is to be used, indicate the type of lighting and wattage. Photographs are recommended in addition to the above.
3. New Construction and Renovations for Commercial Buildings
   1. Applicants must submit 11 sets of the survey, elevation drawings, and landscaping plans. In addition 1 complete set of construction drawings is to be submitted. Provide color samples of exterior building materials, i.e., block, brick stone, roof shingles, exterior plywood, windows, doors, railings, and color samples of trim, etc. Lighting details and type of fixture and details of the parking area, i.e. curbs, bumpers, plantings, and walkways. Photographs are recommended in addition to the above.

Please note: For reference, you can see a copy of these forms on the Forms and Applications page. These forms are carbonized and the original form must be picked up in the Building Department.

13. What do I need to know about Zoning Board of Appeals Applications?

1. The applicant shall submit an application for Zoning and Building Permit (must be signed by the owner) to the Building Department. Requirements are listed as follows:
   1. 8 sets of certified, current surveys indicating all existing and proposed structures with proper dimensions, setbacks, and lot area including decks, tool sheds, swimming pools, etc.
   2. Zoning Data Table
   3. Pay the required fee
   4. Meet with the Building Inspector
2. Upon denial of the application by the Building Department, the application is forwarded to the Zoning Board Office. Applicants should complete blue Zoning Board of Appeals application forms and make an appointment with the Zoning Administrator.
3. Applicant must submit forms in person and will be responsible for publishing the Public Notice in the Journal News and for the certified mailings to contiguous property owners.
4. Applicants will be shown on the tax map what properties have to be notified and must look up the names and mailing addresses.
5. The applicant will then be placed on the agenda for the next available meeting. Applications must be submitted at least 15 days before a meeting to get on the calendar.
6. A decision is usually rendered the night of the meeting unless it is adjourned by the Board.
7. Upon receipt of the written decision of the Board, a building permit must be obtained from the Building Inspector prior to the start of construction.

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Engineering

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1. Can I build near wetlands?

The Wetlands Ordinance and application for a permit is available on the Forms and Applications page of this department. Maps showing certain wetlands are available for review in the Engineering Department. Land parcels may contain wetlands that are not shown on these "general" maps. Each site is unique and must be on a site inspection basis.

2. Can I buy a town zoning map?

Yes. Town Zoning maps are available in Town Hall for a fee of $10 (large) and $5 (small).

3. Can I obtain a topographic map for a certain piece of property?

Yes. Topographic maps for the Town are available in either hard copy or disk.

Fee:

• Partial Sheet-Print
• Acreage determined by area on sheet - $25/acre
• Complete sheet - Disk - $500/sheet
• Complete Sheet - Print $500/sheet

4. Where is my sanitary sewer lateral?

In most instances, the as-built plans are available to homeowners and contractors to assist in finding the lateral. Permits are issued by the Building Department to hook up to the sewer. Permits for curb cuts are issued by the Highway Department.

5. Can I buy a paper street and build on it?

Paper streets are parcels of land shown on a field map to be available for road construction. The Town does not "own" paper streets, therefore the Town cannot sell a paper street. However, the Town has certain rights and powers over a paper street. Each situation is different. Specific cases will be handled individually. Your private attorney should be contacted in these matters. The Town Board has final decision-making powers in this matter.

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Highway Department

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1. When is yard waste collected?

In the Town of Mt. Pleasant yard waste will be picked up from April 1st through October 31st. Normal conditions require 3 to 5 days to complete each section. Leaves, grass, clippings and garden debris must be in paper biodegradable bags. Branches must be no longer than 4 feet in length and stacked at the curb neatly. A maximum of 15 minutes will be spent at any one residence in order to maintain the town-wide schedule. No stumps or logs will be collected - homeowners must make their own arrangements. Brush will not be collected for homeowners or contractors clearing land.

Brush will not be collected after October 31st.

Questions about brush pickup should be directed to the Highway Department at 914-769-1045, or refer to the yard waste collection schedule on this website and/or collection schedule guide that is mailed to residents annually. Please call the Highway Department at 914-769-1045 if you need a copy.

2. When will Christmas trees be picked up?

Christmas trees will be picked up curbside by CRP Sanitation during regular garbage collection or by the Highway Department at some point during the month of January.

3. Where do I purchase a recycling bin and/or leaf bags?

Recycling bins and/or leaf bags are no longer available for purchase at the the Highway Department.

Recycling bins and/or leaf bags can be purchased at most local hardware stores or home improvement centers.

4. What about snow removal?

1. As per Town Code Section 206-17, all vehicles are NOT allowed to be parked on any Town highway or street starting December 1st and ending April 1st from the hours of 1 am to 6 am. This is done to avoid congestion and facilitate the removal of snow and ice from the Town highways during the winter season.
2. The Highway Department is responsible for plowing and salting 242 lane miles of roadway and 27 lane miles of county and state roads.
3. All primary roads are treated first using the latest in de-icing chemicals, liquids and abrasives. All secondary roads are treated second.
4. All primary roads are plowed first when snow levels reach 1 inch. All secondary roads are plowed second.
5. The Town uses over 25 snow plow vehicles to keep the roads safe and clean.
6. Residents are not allowed to shovel or plow any snow from his or her own property into the roadway.
7. Regarding Private Plows - If you, or a private contractor, are plowing your private driveway or parking lot, snow may not be pushed into or across the street. It must be plowed to the rear of your property.
8. Please be advised that if any resident or contractor is seen plowing or shoveling snow into any street or highway in the Town of Mount Pleasant, fines will be issued seeing as this is a direct violation of Town Code as well as safety hazard.

5. How do I discard of a television, air conditioner and/or computer?

The Town of Mount Pleasant's drop-off point for televisions, air conditioners and computers is the Household Material Recovery Facility located on the Grasslands Campus at 15 Woods Road in Valhalla.

Days of operation are Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 am to 3 pm by appointment only.

To schedule appointments call the Recycling Hotline at 914-813-5425 or go to Household Material Recovery Facility website.

6. What is accepted at the Household Material Recovery Facility?

Items accepted:

• Automotive fluids (except motor oil)
• Car tires (with or without rims) up to four per household
• Kerosene and other flammable liquids
• Mercury, thermometers, thermostats
• Electronic waste (computers and peripherals, televisions, cell phones, etc.
• Refrigerant-containing household appliances (air conditioners, refrigerators and dehumidifiers)
• Expired or unused pharmaceuticals (this is available on certain days each month, which can be determined when scheduling a reservation. Prescription or over-the-counter medications must be in their original bottle or container.)
• Metal, jewelry, and furniture polish
• Pesticides, insecticides, herbicides
• Photo and swimming pool chemicals
• Propane tanks
• Wood preservations and stains
• Fluorescent light bulbs (including CFLs and tube-shaped fluorescent bulbs). LEDs do not contain mercury and are not classified as toxic; therefore, they can be disposed of in the garbage.
• Rechargeable batteries (including vehicle batteries and button cell)
• Fire extinguishers

Westchester County has opened a Household Material Recovery Facility on the Grasslands Reservation in Valhalla. The address is 15 Woods Road, Valhalla, New York 10595. The days of operation are Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 am to 3 pm by appointment only. Please visit their website to make an appointment, or call the Recycling HelpLine at 914-813-5425.

Check the Westchester County website.

7. What are the brush collection regulations?

Bags and brush must be placed at the curb according to the dates listed on the most current version of the brush schedule. Please refer to the most current "Highway Department Brush Collection Schedule" chart to identify when your brush should be placed at the curb for its monthly pick up. Please note that normal conditions require 3-5 working days to complete each section, weather permitting.

All brush must be cut into no more than 4 feet lengths and placed at the curb no later than 7 am on the morning of the first scheduled pickup day for your area. Leaves must be in biodegradable paper bags. Plastic bags are not acceptable. No single item, bundle of brush, bag, etc. can weigh more than 50 pounds. Bundles of brush/bags must be capable of being handled by one person. Dirt, rocks or other items should not be placed in the leaf bags. Should any other items be placed in the leaf bags, the bags will not be collected, no exceptions!

Brush will be picked up at private residences only. It will not be picked up for contractors or owners clearing land.

Stumps, logs and large uncut leaders will not be collected.

Should our trucks appear in your area before the scheduled start date due to a lighter load in a previous area, the truck will still return to your area on the scheduled start day. Brush and bags Must Not be mixed with materials left at the curb for sanitation pickup.

Please Note: A maximum of Fifteen Minutes will be spent at any one location so that the town wide schedule can be maintained. No exceptions!

Brush cannot be collected after October 31st, no exceptions! The entire work force begins its fall leaf collection program on November 1st (weather permitting), and continues until the winter weather curtails operations. The brush schedule resumes April 1st, weather permitting.

Should you miss a scheduled pick up in your area, trucks will not return until the next month's scheduled pick up date in order to maintain the town wide schedule, No exceptions!

8. What is acceptable brush to put out for pickup?

Brush collection is a service provided to Mount Pleasant residents whereby the Highway Department collects and disposes of the following yard waste material ONLY:

• Fallen tree branches or moderate amounts of tree prunings cut into 4 ft lengths and placed curbside in a neat pile (not in the road)
• Bagged grass clippings
• Bagged plant material such as flowers, vegetables, weeds, leaves, twigs and small ornamental plantings free of dirt balls
• Bagged hedge clippings only
• Please Note: Entire rows of hedges or large ornamental bushes removed by a homeowner or contractor in a landscaping project Will Not Be Taken, No Exceptions! (The homeowner or contractor must make their own arrangements for removal of those materials.)
• Please Note: Brush collection is not meant for the disposal of entire trees removed from private property - The homeowner or contractor they employ is responsible for the disposal of any tree taken down from private property, No Exceptions!
• The highway department is responsible for the removal and disposal of entire trees from town property only.

9. When can I order compost?

Starting February 1st of each year, residents may call the Highway Department to place an order for compost.

The Highway Department will need your full name, address, and phone number. You will be asked if you would like a small load (1-2 yards) or a large load (3-4 yards) of compost, and you will be asked to put a marker out for the first or second week of April to indicate where you would like the compost placed. A marker can be anything from a tarp, to a cone, or even just a sign that simply says "compost" on it, as long as it is visible to the driver upon delivery.

Compost will be delivered beginning around the first or second week of April, weather permitting.

Compost is free of charge to the residents but please note that it is given out on a first come, first served basis meaning that the earlier you call to place your order the earlier you will receive it once deliveries begin.

10. Will the Highway Department pick up building & construction material?

The Highway Department is not responsible for picking up building and/or construction material.

Homeowners must contact CRP Sanitation at 914-592-4129 to schedule an appointment or make their own arrangements.

11. When is leaf pick-up?

Leaves are collected by the Town of Mount Pleasant Highway Department commencing around October 15th and continuing until the winter weather curtails the operations. Loose leaves should be raked to the curb in a pile; however, they should not be left in the roadway seeing as that is a safety hazard as well as a violation of Town Code Section 166-7 Yard Waste. Loose leaves should not be mixed with any other materials as they will not be collected. Loose leaves will be collected about every 25 working days depending on weather conditions. This basically means that there will be approximately two leaf vacuum pickups at each residence for the fall season starting October 15th until December 1st. Please be aware that any leaves put out at the curb after December 1st, Must Be Bagged, no exceptions.

As specified above, loose leaves left in the roadway are a violation of Town Code. Wet leaves can cause a slipping hazard to drivers and pedestrians; they can clog catch basins that can cause a flooding condition and will be an issue in the event of an early snowstorm. The Town of Mount Pleasant is not looking to fine anyone but in the interest of safety, if the violation continues, we will have no choice then to institute a fine to property owners. If you have a landscaper, please advise them of the Town Code.

Please feel free to contact the Highway Department at any time should you have any further questions and/or concerns 914-769-1045.

12. What is Not accepted at the Household Material Recovery Facility?

Items Not accepted are:

• Construction and demolition debris (including wood and shingles)
• Asbestos (under NO circumstances will asbestos be accepted - please contact an asbestos abatement company)
• Medical waste (except pharmaceuticals)
• Motor Oil
• Explosives (e.g. fireworks, bullets and flares - call your local police department for instructions)
• Curbside recyclables (glass, metal, plastic, cardboard and paper products)
• Non-rechargeable alkaline and carbon zinc batteries (dispose in trash)
• Smoke and fire detectors (dispose in trash)
• Sharps (medical needles and syringes)
• Paint (oil and latex) - harden paint and dispose in trash
• Plastic Bags (bring to large retailer)
• Papers from businesses, institutions, or commercial enterprises will not be accepted for shredding. County staff will reject any paper identified as commercial or institutional.

13. Where can I get a holiday pickup schedule?

Holidays are New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Day, Presidents' Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. Questions about garbage and recycling pickup should be directed to CRP Sanitation at 914-592-4129.

Please refer to the most current Sanitation and Recycling Schedule booklet for more information. This booklet is mailed to all residents annually; however, if for some reason you did not receive it in the mail, a copy of the most current booklet is uploaded to this website and is accessible at any time.

14. What can I do with unwanted Propane Tanks?

The Highway Department no longer accepts propane tanks.

Propane tanks can be returned to most locations that sell propane.

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Home - FAQs

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1. How do I pay my city water bill?

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2. How do I get a new trash can lid?

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3. How do I apply for a job with the City?

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4. My trash didn't get picked up, what should I do now?

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5. How do I get a garage sale permit?

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6. How can I see the agenda for an upcoming City Council or Board meeting?

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Justice Court

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1. Who do I contact with online payment questions?

Online payments are handled by Ncourt. For assistance, please call 914-742-8806.

2. When is the Court in session?

The court is in session every Thursday starting at 9:30 am for criminal matters. Vehicle and Traffic matters are held two Tuesdays a month. Jury trials and civil trials are held various days during the week. The trials are scheduled and all parties are notified in advance.

3. How do I file Small Claims?

You may bring a claim in the court most convenient to you but it must be in the town or village where the party being sued lives, works, or has a place of business. For example, a business firm has an office in Town A but transact business in Town B. It can only be sued in Town A, and not in Town B. Similarly, a person who lives in Town A but owns rental property in Town B must be sued in the court of Town A and not Town B. A summer resident of Town A can be sued in Town A while he is residing there but not after he moves back to the winter residence.

4. Whom can you sue?

You can sue any person or corporation who owes you money if that person or corporation lives, has an office for the transaction of business, or works within the village or town in which court you file your claim.

5. Who may not use the Small Claims Court?

The following entities may not bring claims in this part of the court, although claims may be brought against them in it:

• Corporations (except municipal corporations, such as Cities, Towns, Villages and School Districts) and Public Libraries
• Partnerships
• Associations (such as clubs)
• Persons to whom a small claim has been assigned

Also, Small Claims Court in not to be used to oppress or harass the defendant, e.g. you have already sued the same defendant on the same claim and lost. If the court clerk believes you may be doing so, he may compel you to seek permission from the judge to file the claim.

6. Who may use the Small Claims Court?

Any person over 18 years of age may bring an action for money in the small claims part of the court.

Even a non-resident of New York can bring a Small Claims Court action here. He cannot be required to place any security to reimburse the cost should the defendant be successful.

A minor may file a claim by having a parent or person in whose custody he/she resides go with him/her to make the claim and appear at trial.

7. What is a small claim?

A small claim is a claim for money only, not exceeding $3000 at the present time, where the person you wish to sue either lives, works or has a place of business within the town or village in which you file your claim.

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Receiver of Taxes

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1. Am I eligible for any tax exemptions?

Provided are examples of tax exemptions. For more information on these exemptions and how to apply, please contact the Assessor's office at 914-742-2345.

Senior Citizen's Exemptions

If you are 65 years of age or older, and your gross income is limited, you may be eligible for Senior Citizen tax exemptions, in addition to the STAR program. Applications are available in the Assessor's office.

Veteran's Exemptions

In compliance with Section 458-a of the Real Property Tax Law, we are informing you that you may be eligible for a Veteran's exemption on your legal residence if you served during a qualifying period of War.

2. What do I do if I am a new homeowner in the Town of Mt. Pleasant?

Welcome to the Town of Mount Pleasant! If you are a new homeowner, please contact us at 914-742-2348 so we discuss your property information to ensure proper billing.

Please note that taxes are due at the same time every year:

• April 30th: County/Town Tax Due
• September 30th: 1st Half School Tax Due
• January 31rst: 2nd Half School Tax Due

Please also visit our New Residents and Businesses page.

3. When are town/county tax payments due?

The Mt. Pleasant Receiver of Taxes collects all town and county taxes for Sleepy Hollow, Pleasantville, Hawthorne, Valhalla, Thornwood, and parts of Chappaqua and Briarcliff Manor that are located in the Town of Mt. Pleasant.

Town/County Tax is due by April 30th. Taxes can be paid at the Town of Mt. Pleasant Town Hall at 1 Town Hall Plaza in Valhalla. As of May 1st, all unpaid County/Town tax amounts are subject to a penalty. For questions call Grace Papa at 914-742-2348.

Bills are mailed the last week of March. If you do not receive your bill, you must contact us.

Please note: In order to avoid any tax penalty, your envelope must carry a United States Postmark no later than April 30th.

If paying in person bring the entire bill.

Payment Options

Mail

To avoid penalties, if you pay your taxes by mail during the last days of the month, you must witness a timely U.S. postmark being affixed to the envelope. Pitney Bowes (corporate meters) and foreign postmarks are not acceptable. If you choose to pay electronically through your bank, please allow 7 days for mailing as typically the banks do not have U.S. postmark.

Online

As a convenience to our taxpayers, the Town of Mount Pleasant offers the option of paying taxes online. There is a 2.25% service fee for paying by credit/debit card (MasterCard, Visa, Discover, or Amex), however, there is no fee for paying by electronic check (ACH). Access the Online Tax Payment page to get started. Please be advised, you will need to have your bill number and amount of the original billing to complete the payment transaction.

Please note: To access a copy of your bill, please visit the Tax Status Information page. Please note you will have to accept the terms of the site > enter your name, address, or section/block/lot. When your property details display, select "Bill Detail" for the current tax bill to obtain your bill number and the full amount due.

In-person

The Receiver of Taxes Department is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.

New E-Bill Option

If you are interested in receiving your tax bill, receipts, and reminders via email, please visit the Sign-Up page to get started.

Should you experience difficulty or have any questions, please contact the Receiver of Taxes Department at 914-742-2348.

Town Tax Penalty

Month	Penalty
May	2%
June to July	5%
August to September	7%
October to December	10%
January to April	12%
May 1 to Date of Foreclosure	1% per month on unpaid delinquent tax (12% per annum)

There is a $25 charge for returned checks - Payments in cash must be the exact amount.

In addition, New York State Law provides that the Tax Receiver cannot waive penalties on real estate taxes after the due date for any reason.

Properties with taxes remaining unpaid after 21 months will go into foreclosure. Receipts will be furnished upon request.

4. When and where do I go to pay my school taxes?

School taxes are collected for the Union Free School District of the Tarrytown, Mount Pleasant CSD, Pocantico Hills, Pleasantville UFSD, Valhalla UFSD, Chappaqua UFSD, Byram Hills UFSD, and Briarcliff Manor UFSD for those properties that are located in the Town of Mt. Pleasant.

Please note only one bill is sent out during the last week of August. If at any time you do not receive your bill, please call the Receiver of Taxes office for a duplicate at 914-742-2348.

Please note: If your property is sold after the September payment, but prior to the payment of the second half of this school tax bill, you must notify the new owner of the January tax lien payment due.

• School taxes are payable in two installments.
• The first half of school taxes are due by September 30th without penalty.
• The second half of school taxes are due by January 31st without penalty.

Schedule of Penalties

School Tax Payments

Month	First Half	Second Half
September	None	None
October	2%	None
November	5%	None
December to January	7%	None
February to March	10%	10%
April	12%	12%
May 1 to Date of Foreclosure	1% per month on unpaid delinquent tax (12% per annum)	N/A

There is a $25 charge for returned checks.

Please be advised that payments in cash must be in exact amounts.

In addition, New York State Law provides that the Tax Receiver cannot waive penalties on real estate taxes after the due date for any reason.

Paying By Mail

• If mailing a tax payment a few days prior to the due date, make certain that you witness a timely official United States postmark being affixed to the envelope. Postage meter (i.e. Pitney Bowes) and foreign postmarks are not acceptable, an envelope containing payment of local taxes, without a U.S. Postmark date is deemed paid on the date received. (NYS Real Property Tax Law, section 924a)
• Effective January 2003, new legislation now allows us to accept FedEx, UPS, DHL, and Airborne as timely deliveries if postmarked by the last day of the collection period. (NYS Real Property Tax Law, section 925)
• Please include your telephone number on your check-in in case the Tax office needs to reach you.

Where an envelope containing payment of local taxes contains no U.S. postmark date, payment of such taxes is deemed to have been made on the date the payment is received. Also, New York State law provides that a property owner is not relieved of the responsibility for payment of taxes or interest prescribed by law despite the failure to receive notice of such taxes due.

Tax Payment Receipts will be furnished upon request.

Properties with taxes remaining unpaid after 21 months will go into foreclosure.

The towns in Westchester County are fiscal agents for the collection of school taxes. Budgets are prepared and adopted for a public referendum and are not the function of the Town Government. All inquiries concerning budget matters or expenditures should be directed to your School District or School Board.

Office hours are Monday through Friday, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.

5. What are the penalties if I pay my taxes late?

• The first half of school taxes are due by September 30th without penalty.
• The second half of school taxes are due by January 31st without penalty.
• Town taxes (one installment) are due by April 30th without penalty.

Schedule of Penalties

School Tax Payments

Month	First Half	Second Half
September	None	None
October	2%	None
November	5%	None
December to January	7%	None
February to March	10%	10%
April	12%	12%
May 1 to Date of Foreclosure	1% per month on unpaid delinquent tax (12% per annum)	N/A

Town Tax Penalty

Month	Penalty
May	2%
June to July	5%
August to September	7%
October to December	10%
January to April	12%
May 1 to Date of Foreclosure	1% per month on unpaid delinquent tax (12% per annum)

Please note: New York State Law provides that the Tax Receiver CANNOT waive penalties on real estate taxes after the due date for any reason.

Paying By Mail

• If mailing a tax payment a few days prior to the due date, make certain that you witness a timely official United States postmark being affixed to the envelope. Postage meter (i.e. Pitney Bowes) and foreign postmarks are not acceptable, an envelope containing payment of local taxes, without a U.S. Postmark date is deemed paid on the date received. (NYS Real Property Tax Law, section 924a)
• Effective January 2003, new legislation now allows us to accept FedEx, UPS, DHL, and Airborne as timely deliveries if postmarked by the last day of the collection period. (NYS Real Property Tax Law, section 925)
• Please include your telephone number on your check-in, just in case the Tax office needs to reach you.

Where an envelope containing payment of local taxes contains no U.S. postmark date, payment of such taxes is deemed to have been made on the date the payment is received. Also, New York State law provides that a property owner is not relieved of the responsibility for payment of taxes or interest prescribed by law despite the failure to receive notice of such taxes due.

Tax payment receipts will be furnished upon request.

6. Can a third party be notified about taxes?

If you are 65 years of age or older, or disabled, or you own and occupy a 1, 2, or 3-family residence, you may designate a concerning adult third party to receive duplicate copies of your tax bill or delinquent notice. Applications are available from the tax office and must be filed prior to February 10th for County/Town taxes and prior to July 10th for School taxes.

7. What do I do if I am no longer escrowing my taxes?

If you are no longer escrowing your taxes, please contact us immediately at 914-742-2348.

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Recreation & Parks Department

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1. Do infants need pool passes even if they will not swim?

All persons using the pool complex must either have a valid pool pass or attend as a paying guest of a pass holder. Children under 2 are free but must present the Under 2 Pass.

2. What discount is offered for a Town of Mt. Pleasant resident senior citizen 60 years and older?

There is a 25% discount for adult programs only for Town of Mt. Pleasant Resident Senior Citizens unless noted differently for specific Senior events, trips, special Town events, etc.

3. How can I register for the use of the Mount Pleasant Town Pool?

Photo I.D. pool passes are required for use of the pool. Individuals and families may register and obtain the photo I.D. passes at the Recreation and Parks Department Office in Town Hall on weekdays between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm.

Two Proofs of residence will be required from all persons purchasing pool passes.

Note: Owning property does not necessarily qualify a person as a resident. Tax Bills are not acceptable proofs of residency.

4. What is the registration policy and procedure?

Registration Policy & Procedures

Activity Online Registration website

 

• Online Registration is HIGHLY recommended. In order to register online you must create an account prior to registration opening. 

1. If you do not have an account, call the Recreation Department at 914-742-2310 and ask to create an account.  
2. Please be prepared to provide the following information: 

• Account Holder’s name
• Address of household
• Phone number(s)
• Email address
• Each member of your family’s name, date of birth, and grade (if applicable)

1. The Recreation Department will then provide an explanation of where to log in, what your username is and how to set your password. 

• Log In Link: https://registration.mtpleasantny.com/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/wbsplash.html 
• Username is the email address provided
• A password will be set by the Recreation Department that you can change after your first log in
• Walk- In Program Registration 

Walk-In registrations will be accepted at the Recreation office beginning on Monday, November 13^th starting at 10:00am.  They will be entered upon receipt. Registration form REQUIRED.

• Mail- In Program Registration 

Mail-in registrations can be sent to the Recreation office. Beginning on Monday, November 13^th at 10:00am they will be entered at random despite date of arrival in office.  Registration form REQUIRED. 

Attention: Recreation Department

1 Town Hall Plaza

Valhalla, NY 10595

5. Can I pay with a credit card? Can I get a refund?

We accept cash, credit, and checks

Generally, refunds are only granted if the program is canceled. Any other refund requests will be viewed individually and will be prorated and subject to a 20% processing fee if approved.

The Recreation and Parks Department reserves the right to cancel any program and issue appropriate refunds whenever it is considered in the best interest of the Department.

6. For purposes of the Recreation and Parks Department, what is a "Family”?

Family: Parents and their unmarried children under 21 years of age residing in the same household. Unmarried children between 21 and 25 years of age may be included if they are full-time students and have proof of student status in the Spring. Grandparents and household helpers are not included in the family but may be eligible for their own passes.

7. What summer camps does the Recreation and Parks Department offer?

• For the most up-to-date information on Summer Camp, visit our Summer Camp tab by clicking HERE
• If you need to set up an account please contact us at the recreation department at 914-742-2310
• You will need a valid email on file to register online

8. Who do I call about pool program cancellations?

For pool program cancellations, please contact the Recreation office at (914)742-2310.

9. What is acceptable "Proof of Residency" for Pool ID?

1. A current driver's license with your present address and any of the following items that must indicate a current date:
   1. Car registration or insurance card,
   2. Household bill, i.e. Con Ed., telephone, or cable.
   3. A birth certificate for a child under 2 years of age must be presented at the time of registration.
2. When no current driver's license with your present address is produced, a picture I.D. and two of the above-suggested proofs are required.

Note: Owning property does not necessarily qualify a person as a resident.

Tax bills are not acceptable proof of residency.

10. What jobs opportunities are there for summer employment?

Summer Employment Opportunities

The Mt. Pleasant Recreation and Parks Department has over 100 part-time jobs available during the Summer for individuals 16 years of age and over. Positions include Lifeguards, Water Safety Instructors, Cashiers, Parks Groundskeepers, Counselors, and Specialists.

Some positions are available on a half-day basis. Mt. Pleasant has volunteer positions for 15-year-old teens as Counselors in Training at the day camps and Lifeguards in Training at the pool. CITs can work in either Camp Summer Fun or Mini Mount for half or all day.

All applications are available at the Recreation Office.

11. Where can I go outdoor ice skating?

Free ice skating for residents is available at Leith's Pond on Rolling Hill Road at Carroll Park in Thornwood, Opperman's Pond on Lake Drive and Bedford Road (Rte 117) in Pleasantville, and Bear Ridge Lake on Lake Shore Drive in Pleasantville. A sign will be posted when the ice is safe to skate on. For skating conditions, call the Recreation Hotline at 914-742-2364.

12. How will I know if programs are cancelled due to inclement weather?

If programs are canceled due to inclement weather, notification to participants will be made via email and/or phone.  If you have any questions, you can call the Recreation Office at (914)742-2310.

13. How can I find out if a Recreation Department event is cancelled because of inclement weather?

If programs are canceled due to inclement weather, notification to participants will be made via email and/or phone.  If you have any questions, you can call the Recreation Office at (914)742-2310.

14. Can I register for programs by phone?

Registration by phone is not permitted. You may register by coming into the Recreation and Parks Department Office or by mail. Mail-in registrations must include a completed and signed registration form and a check for the amount due.

15. What is "Village"?

The Village classification includes residents of the Village of Pleasantville, the Village of Sleepy Hollow, and the Mount Pleasant portion of the Village of Briarcliff Manor. Village residents may join the Town Pool at a higher rate (because they do not pay recreation taxes to the Town) but are not allowed to participate in other programs unless they live in the Mount Pleasant School District or attend school in the Town Outside.

16. What is "Town Outside"?

The Town Outside refers to all areas of the Town of Mount Pleasant that are located outside of the actual municipal boundaries of Briarcliff Manor, Pleasantville, and Sleepy Hollow. Town Outside residents are eligible to participate in all appropriate department programs.

Town Outside: Residents of the unincorporated sections of the Town of Mt. Pleasant. A portion of the residence must be in the unincorporated Town.

17. How can I get a program brochure?

Program brochures are available at the Mt. Pleasant Community Center and the Recreation Office at Town Hall. The brochure can be accessed on our website www.mtpleasantny.com under the Recreation department. 

 The brochure will also be e-blasted out to everyone in our system.  If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office at 914-742-2310.

18. How do I post on the Community Sign Board?

A single sign is located in Valhalla and at Thornwood Water District and a frame with space for two signs is located at the Rose Hill Shopping Center in Thornwood. For additional information on the use of the signs and to reserve space, contact the Recreation Office at 914-742-2310.

19. Can I rent the Community Center?

When available, the community center is available on a rental basis for individuals and organizations residing in the Town. Sunday is the best day to rent. No daytime rentals are permitted from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Call 914-742-2310 for more information on policies and fees.

You may download the Application to Rent the Bradhurst or Mount Pleasant Community Center from our Forms and Documents page.

20. Do I need a permit to picnic at the Town Parks?

The Town allows group picnics at Broadway Field and Bradhurst Park. Picnic permits are required and may be obtained at the Recreation Office or downloaded from the forms section of the page.

Reserve your space early. All permits are granted on a first-come, first-served basis. Picnic areas may be reserved one year in advance. The Town reserves the right to cancel any permit with a full refund if the space is needed for a Town-sponsored program.

21. How do I know if a sporting event has been cancelled?

Notification to participants regarding the cancellation of sport events will be made via phone, email, or Team Sideline.

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Sanitation

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1. When is my garbage collected?

Regular trash is picked up on Mondays and Thursdays or Tuesdays and Fridays depending on which area you live in.

All material must be placed curbside by 7 am.

Questions about garbage and recycling pickup in the Town of Mt. Pleasant should be directed to CRP Sanitation at 914-592-4129.

2. When is bulk pickup? What can I put out for bulk pickup?

Bulk pick up is the 2nd pickup of the week. Clean-up piles are limited to 3 feet by 6 feet.

Appliances, couches and other large items will be collected at the curb by appointment. Contact CRP Sanitation for further information at 914-592-4129.

Televisions, computer monitors and air conditioners can be dropped off at the Household Material Recovery Facility at 15 Woods Road in Valhalla. Please contact them directly at 914-813-5425 for further information as some items require an appointment.

3. Where can I purchase a recycling bin?

Recycling bins can be purchased at a hardware store or Home Improvement Center.

4. How do I dispose of paint cans?

All paint cans must be dried up using paint hardener or cat litter. Paint can also be poured onto rags to dry. Once paint is dried it can be put out with your regular trash with the lids off.

5. When is recycling pickup?

Recycling will be picked up on Wednesdays. Check the recycling schedule for details on when commingled and paper are picked up.

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Town Clerk

Show All Answers

1. Where and how can I get a certified copy of a birth, death, or marriage certificate?

For information on how to obtain a birth, death, or marriage record, see the Birth / Death / Marriage Records page.

2. How can I get a marriage license?

For information on how to get a marriage license, please see the Marriage Licenses & One-Day Officiant Licenses page.

3. How can I get a train station parking permit?

For information on how to get a Metro North train station parking permit, see the Commuter Parking page.

4. Where can I get voting, voter registration, and absentee ballot information?

For information on voting and elections, see the Elections page.

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Water / Sewer

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1. When are water bills sent and when are payments due?

Overview

Water payments are due in the Town Hall offices by 4:30 pm on the due date listed on the bill. Payments postmarked with that date will also be accepted. Payments received or postmarked after the due date are subject to a 5% penalty.

Water Bills Come Quarterly

• December 01 through March 01: Billing Date 3/31, Due Date 4/30
• March 01 through June 01: Billing Date 6/30, Due Date 7/31
• June 01 through September 01: Billing Date 9/30, Due Date 10/31
• September 01 through December 01: Billing Date 12/31, Due Date 1/31

2. Who do I call about my water bill?

Town of Mt. Pleasant residents may call the Water Department at 914-831-1062 from 8:30 am to 4 pm, Monday through Friday. Summer hours (4/29 through 9/29) are 7:30 am to 3:30 pm.

3. What should I do in case of a sewer backup?

During normal working hours, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday, residents should call the Sewer Department at 914-831-1062. At all other times call the Police Department at 914-769-1942. The Police Department will contact Sewer Department personnel and a crew will be sent to inspect the main sewer. It is important that the main line be checked first to make certain that it is not blocked. It is important that you do not remove the sewer clean-out cover in your home until you are certain that the main line sewer is running freely.

4. What should I do if I have a water leak or low water pressure?

If you have any of the above-mentioned situations, please call the Water Department at 914-831-1062 Monday through Friday, except holidays, from 8:30 am to 4 pm. At all other times, call the Police Department at 914-769-1942. The Police Department will contact the Water Department personnel to evaluate the problem.

5. If I move into a new home, how do I get the water bill in my name?

If you are moving into a new home in the Town of Mt. Pleasant, remember to call the Water Department at 914-831-1062 to make sure that the proper billing dates have been recorded. Unpaid water bills can become a tax lien. Ensure that billing records are accurate.

6. If I move, how can I get a final water meter reading?

If you are moving and discontinuing your water service, you must contact the Town of Mt. Pleasant Water Department at 914-831-1062 for a final read. In order for water bills to be sent to the correct customer, the Town must be notified of start and stop dates. There is a $50 fee for this service.

7. How can I save water in the kitchen and laundry?

Six Things You Can Do to Save Water in the Kitchen & Laundry

1. Use your automatic dishwasher only for full loads.
2. Use your automatic washing machine only for full loads.
3. If you wash dishes by hand, don't leave the water running for rinsing. If you have two sinks, fill one with soapy water and one with rinse water. If you have only one sink, gather washed dishes in a dish rack and rinse them with a spray device or pan full of hot water.
4. Don't let the faucet run while you clean vegetables. Just rinse them in a sink or pan of clean water.
5. Keep a bottle of drinking water in the refrigerator. Running tap water to cool it off for drinking is wasteful.
6. Check faucets and pipes for leaks. Leaks waste water 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and often can be repaired with only an inexpensive washer.

8. How can I save water?

Ten Things You Can Do to Save Water Outside

1. Water your lawn only when it needs it. A good way to see if your lawn needs watering is to step on the grass. If it springs back up when you move, it doesn't need water. If it stays flat, fetch the sprinkler.
2. Deep-soak your lawn. When you do water, do it long enough for the moisture to soak down to the roots where it will do the most good. A light sprinkling can evaporate quickly and tends to encourage shallow root systems.
3. Water during the cool parts of the day. Early morning generally is better than dusk since it helps prevent growth of fungus.
4. Don't water the gutter. Position your sprinklers so water lands on the lawn or garden, not on paved areas. Also, avoid watering on windy days.
5. Plant drought-resistant trees and plants. Many beautiful trees and plants thrive with far less watering than other species.
6. Put a layer of mulch around trees and plants. Mulch will slow the evaporation of moisture and discourage weed growth too.
7. Use a broom, not a hose, to clean driveways and sidewalks.
8. Don't run the hose while washing your car. Clean the car with a pail of soapy water. Use the hose just to rinse it off.
9. Tell your children not to play with the hose and sprinklers.
10. Check for leaks in pipes, hoses, faucets, and couplings. Leaks outside the house may not seem as bad since they're not visible, but they can be just as wasteful as leaks inside. Check frequently and keep them drip-free.

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Water Advisory

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1. Do you drink the water?

Yes. My family and I live in town, continue to drink and have consumed water from the Kensico Water District since we moved here almost seventeen years ago.

- David Smyth, P.E., Town Engineer/Interim Superintendent of Water and Sewer

2. When will the Town receive new testing results?

All of our first quarter 2019 samples have just been received. We are analyzing the results and will be calculating the Annual Average for both districts in association with Health Department Standards. The results will soon be posted online. Initial review of these samples show reduced levels from last quarter but due to the annual running average we are unfortunately expected to exceed the Maximum Contaminant Level for the 1st Quarter of 2019 for both Kensico and Pocantico Water Districts.

3. When is the Town meeting with the consultant Woodard & Curran Engineers and what is their timeline of any possible info or updates?

The consultant submitted their proposal on March 18, 2019 and the services were approved by the Town Supervisor, Carl Fulgenzi, as an emergency measure on March 19th, 2019. The Town Board will be voting on a resolution to officially authorize the hiring of the consultant on March 26th. A meeting has been scheduled with the consultant on Thursday March 21th, 2019 to discuss the pathway to finding short term and long term solutions. A timeline will be created at this meeting and provided to the public. We will also be meeting with the Westchester County Board of Health to discuss similar topics on March 29th. Keeping the Health Department up to date and active in this process will speed the review time as to accelerate permit issuing if needed shall operational changes to the system will be required.

4. Has the Town reached out to all schools?

We have begun contacting the Superintendents of the Valhalla, Westlake and Pocantico School Districts and administrators at EF Academy. The Department will be offering to immediately sample the water at a fixture inside the building near the point where the main enters the building. Our plan is to take one sample at each school campus site and this sampling will be tested monthly while schools are in session with the results posted online.

5. When is the Town having the water re-tested for these acids?

We will be sampling next week at four routine sampling sites in the district. We are also conducting additional sampling at the entrance and exit at the Commerce Street Pump Station and at the Water Storage Tanks located on Lozza Drive. These four additional samples will provide an understanding of where and at what levels the Haloacetic Acids are being created in our system. This information will assist in determining where and what type of measures are possible to deploy to reduce the acids levels.

6. Is the water safe to drink and use right now?

We would first like to answer this question by restating the information contained within the public notice as provided by the State Health Department.

"The presence of haloacetic acids at the concentrations detected in the water system does not constitute an immediate health hazard. Although the standard is slightly exceeded, it is not a 'bright line' between drinking water concentrations that cause health effects and those that do not. The standard for haloacetic acids is set at a water concentration at which exposure is much lower than exposures identified as causing health effects in animals. Thus, exceedance of the standard is not a trigger for health effects, but a trigger for water suppliers to take action to reduce the haloacetic acid concentrations and maintain what is already a large margin of protection against health effects."

Provided for you on our website is a fact sheet on Haloacetic Acids issued by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Sciences which summarizes the carcinogenic (cancer producing) effects of the contaminant:

"Human studies have yet to confirm that DCA or TCA [Haloacetic Acids] exposure increases the risk of cancer. Based on the animal data, at the current HAA5 regulatory level [60 micrograms per liter], the cancer risk is estimated to increase by about 1 in 60,000 for every 10 years of exposure."

This cancer risk was estimated by EPA and is based on animal testing data. Animal studies that have shown impacts of Haloacetic Acids occurred with continuous high levels of exposure between 4 and 18 times the standard regulatory amounts.

7. I have a compromised immune system, should I use the water?

For those whom have a compromised immune system, our recommendation is to contact your doctor to request medical advice on the consumption of the water. Should you have any concern what so ever regarding your health or the safety of the water, we would recommend you seek to filter your water to reduce/remove the Haloacetic Acid contaminant.

8. Do filters work and can you recommend a filter to use?

We have provided a list of filters that were reported to reduce Haloacetic Acids from the water on our website. Also on this site are two studies that show the results of the use of these filters which supports their use. We would recommend you contact the manufacture if you have questions/concerns with their system. The maintenance and directions for the use of these filters should be followed to return the benefit desired.

9. Why do other municipalities not have these issues?

All municipalities have some levels of Haloacetic Acids within their water. Other municipalities have had levels that exceeded the standard in the past and several operate at Haloacetic Acid water concentrations that are half of what we traditionally yield. Municipalities with lower levels either filter their water or have smaller systems that do not require extended contact times for their disinfectant to safely disable the pathogens in their system. This level of chlorine and reduced age of the water in a smaller system tends to keep by-product levels down. The Town considered installing a $10M filtration system within the Kensico Water District in 1997 due to change in the regulations. Around this time the Town consolidating the Hawthorne, Thornwood and Valhalla districts while incurring $24M in debt to complete necessary upgrades the operations of the districts. This work also included the lining of a majority of the water mains in the district which aids to decrease the disinfection by-products that could be formed within the system. As the Town received a waiver from having to install this plant, the additional cost on top of the debt incurred for the required capital improvements may have been too costly.

10. Why are we just hearing about this problem now?

The Town is only required to send out direct notices when the state standards are exceeded. In the last fourteen years, Kensico Water District only exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCL) one other time in 2011 while the Pocantico Water District only exceeded the MCL in 2016. However, we are required and do publish our annual averages for Haloacetic Acids for all ten of our water districts in Annual Water Quality Reports. Post cards of these reports are posted for viewing when they are available to inform district customers. We also provide the most recent reports online for viewing anytime. The fourteen year average for Haloacetic Acids is 50.9 and 45.4 micrograms per liter for Kensico and Pocantico Water Districts respectively. These averages are under the MCL as established by the State and EPA.

11. Are there any other ways to reduce these contaminants?

The Town is able to systematically flush the distribution system but there are potential negative impacts that could arise from this measure. Flushing, through fire hydrants, disrupts the system resulting in potential laundry impacts and produces cloudy water throughout the system. Flushing also uses large volumes of water resulting in higher costs to the district. Although these are acceptable consequences when compared to increasing the health of our residents, flushing also puts additional pressure on the system and could lead to water main failures. When needed, we perform flushing of our system.