Connecticut House Bill HB07318

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/12/17
• Refer: 4/12/17
• Report Pass: 4/27/17
• Refer: 5/3/17
• Report Pass: 5/9/17
• Engrossed: 6/7/17
• Report Pass: 6/7/17
• Chaptered: 6/26/17
• Enrolled: 6/29/17
• Passed: 7/11/17

Caption

An Act Concerning The Failure To File For Certain Grand List Exemptions, The Community Housing Land Bank And Land Trust Program And The Tax Revaluation Deadline For The Town Of Orange.

Impact

By facilitating easier access to tax exemptions, the bill aims to support very low, low, and moderate-income families, particularly through nonprofit organizations that manage housing resources. It allows these nonprofits to acquire property using state funds, ensuring such properties are used for affordable housing. The establishment of the Community Housing Land Bank will further assist in coordinating housing needs and community development efforts, providing necessary support to fulfill housing demand while preventing homelessness.

Summary

House Bill 7318 addresses several provisions related to housing and municipal finance, primarily focusing on adjustments to grand list exemptions and establishing the Community Housing Land Bank and Land Trust Program. The bill enables certain individuals in specific towns, such as Danbury and New Britain, to retroactively claim property tax exemptions for which they were eligible but failed to file applications on time. This retroactive allowance is intended to provide relief to property owners and promote equitable tax practices amidst bureaucratic challenges.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 7318 appears positive, especially among advocates for affordable housing who view the bill as beneficial for vulnerable populations. However, there may be skepticism regarding the implementation and management of the Community Housing Land Bank, as stakeholders might worry about how effectively it will operate and whether it will adequately fulfill its mission of addressing housing needs.

Contention

One point of contention that may arise is the management and oversight of the housing programs established by the bill, including who controls the Community Housing Land Bank and how funds will be allocated. Additionally, while the bill facilitates tax exemptions, there may be debates about the long-term fiscal implications for municipal budgets reliant on property tax revenue. These factors could lead to discussions about balancing the needs of affordable housing against the financial sustainability of municipal services.