Submitted by COA Director Alison Cservenschi
Happy New Year everyone,
As we look forward to this new year, I am pleased to share some exciting developments for older residents that the town of Bedford has supported recently.
Over the last few years, Rick Rosen, a former COA Board member, has generously volunteered his time and worked diligently with town committees and staff, to help establish our first Tax Relief Donation program. This fund allows taxpayers to voluntarily donate money to help defray real estate taxes of elderly or disabled persons of low income. Look for an insert in upcoming real estate tax bills for more information on how to donate, or the eligibility to apply for assistance yourself.
I thank Rick and the members of the newly established Taxation Aid Committee who are working together to make this program a success.
Next, I thank the community as a whole for their vote of support at the last Special Town Meeting to establish the “Senior and Veteran’s Tax Work-off Program.” This great program, initiated by Bedford’s Finance Department, allows Bedford homeowners to offset up to $1,000 this year in real estate taxes in exchange for work within town departments.
If you are a veteran, or senior over 60, and are interested in working up to 66 hours, consider this program to reduce your taxes. The 2024 income guidelines to participate are $69,000 for singles, $86,000 for head of household, and $103,000 for married couples. Your home must also be less than the median home value of $818,050 and there is a requirement to provide documentation and pass a CORI and SORI security check.
If you qualify, and are interested in getting back into work, please contact me for more information. I always keep all information private and confidential and will work to match you with the best location for your skills. Please help us make this program a success in Bedford by participating if you can. It is a great opportunity to get out and do something new while reducing your taxes.
I thank Bedford schools, the Department of Public Works, and the Fire Department for opening their doors and welcoming older workers and veterans for this important program. In addition, I thank the Board of Assessors and the Assessors Department who endorsed the funding for this program, and town staff who worked with me to bring the program to life.
This newsletter would also not be possible without the generous support from local sponsors. I acknowledge our 2024 COA Connections advertisers: The Residence at Bedford, Oasis Senior Advisors, Right at Home, Deb Haley, Train with Shaine, Assisting Hands, Barrett Sotheby’s, AHS Audiology & Hearing Solutions, Senior Safety Audit, Bedford Funeral Home, Inc., Dale Tamburro, Edward Jones, Heart to Home Meals, Suzanne and Company, Carleton Willard Villages, Inc., Minuteman Diner, Brown & Brown, P.C., ADT, Shawsheen Funeral Home, Inc., HUB Physical Therapy, and a generous Bedford family. If you, your family, or organization, would like to show support for older residents of Bedford and help fund this monthly newsletter, please contact us.
In closing, thank you all for your continued participation in, and support of, our programs and services. I hope you make us part of your New Year plans. We hope to see you soon.
Wishing you and yours a very happy and healthy New Year.
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